Cristiano Ronaldo's quest for World Cup glory is over — and so is Roberto Martinez's reign as Portugal head coach. The Iberians were dumped out cruelly on Tuesday night as Arsenal's Mikel Merino came off the bench to score a stoppage-time winner for Spain, sending La Roja into the quarter-finals. But in the aftermath, much of the blame has fallen on Portugal's own failings.
Portugal's national media have blasted Ronaldo's 'ego', pointing to a squad overflowing with talent that failed to deliver when it mattered most. The fallout was immediate: Martinez resigned after an underwhelming campaign, calling time on his spell with the Selecao. Meanwhile, in a sign of the dressing-room turmoil, Maya Jama's ex Ruben Dias stormed out of a post-match interview.
“Portugal crash out after Merino's stoppage-time winner; Martinez resigns and Ronaldo's 'ego' criticised.”
Ronaldo, however, offered a defiant response. "My conscience is clear," he said, issuing a verdict that will do little to quieten his critics. The 41-year-old now leaves the World Cup stage without the trophy that has eluded him throughout his legendary career.
For Spain, it is a moment of triumph. Mikel Merino, introduced as a super-sub, powered home a header deep into added time to break Portuguese hearts. The winner sent Spain through to the last eight and ended the hopes of a Portugal side that had been tipped by many as potential champions.
The defeat sparked a national inquest. Portugal, despite boasting a deep squad, were accused of being 'weak' when it mattered. Martinez's resignation was perhaps the only predictable outcome after a campaign that failed to ignite. For Ronaldo, the question now is whether he will continue at international level — but with the World Cup gone, his chances of adding that crown to his collection are all but over.