All Three World Cup Hosts Eliminated as Spain Ends Ronaldo's Final Tournament

There will be no home glory for any of the three 2026 FIFA World Cup host nations after Mexico, the USA and Canada were all knocked out in the Round of 16. England edged Mexico 3-2, Belgium cruised past the USA 4-1, while Morocco stunned Canada with a 3-0 victory, ending the hopes of all three co-hosts before the quarter-finals.

Spain also booked their place in the last eight with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Portugal, thanks to a stoppage-time winner from substitute Mikel Merino. The tense Iberian derby looked destined for extra time until Merino struck in the dying moments, sending Spain through to the quarter-finals.

The defeat also marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup career. The 41-year-old had already confirmed this would be his final appearance at football’s biggest tournament, bringing the curtain down on an extraordinary World Cup journey that spanned six editions. Ronaldo later said he leaves the competition with a “clear conscience” and pride in everything he achieved for Portugal.