Merino’s stoppage-time winner ends Ronaldo’s World Cup dream as Rooney lands fresh jibe

Deep into stoppage time in Dallas, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s final World Cup hanging by a thread, super-sub Mikel Merino rose to head Spain into the quarter-finals — and with it extinguish the 41-year-old’s hopes of global glory. The dramatic winner left Portugal heartbroken, and almost immediately the fallout began. Wayne Rooney, working as a BBC pundit, appeared to aim a fresh swipe at his former Manchester United teammate, according to reports. Rooney had already heavily criticised Portugal’s midfield, singling out Bruno Fernandes for failing to utilise Ronaldo’s strengths inside the penalty area. But the criticism took on a sharper edge as Rooney also seemed to hint at a comparison between Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, reviving a long-running feud. The two strikers forged a formidable attacking partnership at Old Trafford under Sir Alex Ferguson, winning numerous trophies together. Yet their relationship has been tested by public disagreements and high-stakes international clashes. The first major flashpoint came during the 2006 World Cup, when Ronaldo famously advocated for Rooney’s dismissal after a foul and was caught winking at the Portuguese bench after Rooney received a red card. That sparked widespread fury from the English press and fans. Though they later reconciled at club level, subtle tensions have surfaced since both left United. Rooney has periodically offered blunt assessments of his former teammate’s career choices and on-field behaviour. Now, with Portugal’s exit confirmed, the dynamic has burst back into the open. Spain move on to the quarter-finals, while Ronaldo’s last chance at World Cup glory is over.