"We're to be congratulated...": Antonio Banderas hails Spain's defensive record after FIFA World Cup win over Portugal
Dallas, July 7
Antonio Banderas celebrated Spain's place in the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals while praising the national team's defensive resilience following its hard-fought victory over Portugal in the Round of 16.
After Spain edged Portugal 1-0 on Monday, July 6 (local time), the renowned actor and director shared a message on social media highlighting the team's defensive achievement throughout the tournament.
"After a very tough match against a great team like Portugal, I'd like to highlight that in 5 tournament matches, no one has scored a goal against Spain," Banderas wrote in a post on his official X handle.
He concluded his post by celebrating Spain's progress to the last eight, saying, "We're in the quarterfinals, we're to be congratulated."
Spain secured its place in the quarterfinals after defeating Portugal 1-0 in a dramatic Iberian derby at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Substitute Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal in the 91st minute to send La Roja through to the next round.
The defeat ended Portugal's World Cup campaign and marked the final FIFA World Cup appearance of 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, who confirmed before the tournament that the 2026 edition would be his last on football's biggest stage.
Spain will now travel to Los Angeles Stadium to face Belgium on Friday, July 10 (local time), for a place in the tournament's semi-finals.
Belgium booked its quarterfinal berth after a commanding 4-1 victory over the United States in the Round of 16.
— ANI
Reader Comments
That last-minute goal by Merino was brutal for Ronaldo fans. But Spain deserves it, their defensive discipline is something Indian football needs to learn from. No frills, just clean sheets and teamwork. Belgium will be a huge test though.
Honestly, as a neutral fan, I wanted Portugal to win just for Ronaldo's farewell. But Spain's defense is no joke. Banderas is right to be proud. 🇪🇸 Also, 91st minute winner - typical Spain drama! Now bring on Belgium, that'll be a cracker.
Spain's defensive record is incredible, but let's be honest - they had some easy group matches. Still, holding Portugal scoreless is impressive. Banderas's post is a bit smug though, no need to rub it in. 😏 Anyway, Belgium vs Spain will be the real test.
Banderas hyping up Spain's defense is fair play, but Portugal had chances too. Football is cruel - one miss can end your journey. Sad to see Ronaldo go out like this, but Spain moves on. India should take notes on defensive organization. Just saying. 🤷
As a Spain fan since 2010, this feels amazing! Defense wins tournaments, and they've proven it. Banderas's message was classy, not smug at all. Ronaldo's exit is emotional but Spain deserved it. Can't wait for the Belgium match - tension hi tension! 😬
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