Can Ronaldo Break the Record of Disappointment Against Spain

Bibhash Lodh, BS News Agency: The two neighboring countries Portugal and Spain are facing each other in the last sixteen of the World Cup. Although Cristiano Ronaldo is Portugal's biggest hope in this match, his past statistics against Spain are not at all comforting. Portugal fought hard and won the last 32 match against Croatia. Ronaldo scored a penalty in the 68th minute of the match to equalize the team. This was his first goal in the knockout stage of the World Cup. Later, Gonzalo Ramos' winning goal in extra time ensured Portugal's ticket to the last sixteen. This time, Spain, which is in great rhythm under the leadership of young star Lamine Yamal, awaits them. On one side, the experienced Ronaldo, on the other hand, the young Yamal, the interest of football fans is high around this duel. However, Ronaldo's past record against Spain is not happy for him. He has faced Spain 10 times in his career. Out of these, he has won only two matches. The first victory came in 2004, and the last victory in 2025.

Ronaldo either lost or drew in all the matches in between. Ronaldo's most memorable match against Spain was in the 2018 World Cup. That thrilling group stage match ended in a 3-3 draw. Ronaldo scored a brilliant hat-trick in that match. His amazing free-kick goal in added time saved Portugal from defeat.

That match is still considered one of the most memorable matches in the World Cup. Although Spain has been more successful in history, Portugal can be confident of winning in the last match. If they can repeat that success this time, they will make it to the quarter-finals of the World Cup.

The start of both teams in this year's World Cup was not as expected. Portugal drew 1-1 with the Democratic Republic of Congo in the first match. On the other hand, Spain drew 0-0 against Cape Verde. However, both teams turned things around in the second match. Portugal blew out Uzbekistan 5-0. Spain also defeated Saudi Arabia 4-0.

Portugal finished second in their group after drawing with Colombia in the last match of the group stage. On the other hand, Spain won the group by defeating Uruguay. In the knockout stage, the style of victory of the two teams was also different. Portugal had to fight until the last minute against Croatia. On the other hand, Spain easily defeated Austria 3-0 to secure a ticket to the last sixteen.

Spain has not conceded a single goal in the entire tournament so far. On the other hand, Portugal has proven the strength of their attack by scoring regularly. Therefore, the duel of Spain's strong defense and Portugal's sharp attack is going to be the most interesting aspect of the match in this last sixteen match.