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The rivalry, in football culture
The defining recent meeting is the 2018 World Cup group stage opener, when Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat-trick (including a 88th-minute equaliser from a free kick) to draw 3-3 with Spain. It's still one of the best opening-round matches of the modern era and is the most-watched Spain vs Portugal fixture in football history.
Notable meetings
- 2018 World Cup group stage — Portugal 3-3 Spain. Ronaldo hat-trick. Diego Costa twice. The Russia 2018 opening weekend's defining match.
- 2010 World Cup round of 16 — Spain 1-0 Portugal in Cape Town. David Villa's winner. Spain's path to their first World Cup title started by ending Portugal's tournament.
- Multiple friendlies and qualifying matches across recent decades — the rivalry is constant rather than tournament-only.
Kit comparison
Which kit is better — Spain or Portugal?
The football rivalry is one thing. The kit rivalry is another. See the full kit comparison with verdicts, design notes, and retailer-search routes for both teams.
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