Portugal Edge Croatia 2-1 in FIFA World Cup Thriller, Set Up Round of 16 Clash with Spain

Portugal booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia at Toronto Stadium. Gonçalo Ramos scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner after Cristiano Ronaldo had earlier equalised from the penalty spot, ending Croatia’s campaign in heartbreaking fashion.

⚽ Portugal vs Croatia Match Summary

Portugal and Croatia produced one of the most entertaining Round of 32 encounters of the tournament. While the first half ended without goals, both teams created several opportunities in an end-to-end contest.

Croatia started brightly, but Portugal gradually took control, forcing goalkeeper Dominik Livaković into a series of important saves. Bruno Fernandes, João Cancelo, Rafael Leão, João Neves and Cristiano Ronaldo all came close before the break, but the score remained 0-0.

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Croatia Strike First

Croatia finally broke the deadlock early in the second half when Ivan Perišić controlled a cross from Josip Stanišić before firing past Diogo Costa to make it 1-0.

The Croatian side looked increasingly dangerous on the counter, while Portugal struggled to find an immediate response. Mateo Kovačić nearly doubled Croatia’s lead, but Diogo Costa produced two outstanding saves to keep Portugal alive.

Ronaldo Makes History

Portugal’s breakthrough came in the 68th minute after winning a penalty. Cristiano Ronaldo confidently converted from the spot, registering his first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout-stage goal.

The strike also saw Ronaldo become the oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout match, adding another remarkable milestone to his legendary international career.

Ramos Delivers the Winner

As extra time appeared inevitable, Portugal produced one final attack.

Gabriel Veiga released Rafael Leão down the left flank before the winger delivered a superb cross into the penalty area. Gonçalo Ramos rose highest to power a header into the top corner in the 94th minute, sending Portugal into the Round of 16.

Late VAR Drama Ends Croatia’s Dream

Croatia believed they had forced extra time when Joško Gvardiol found the net deep into stoppage time.

However, after a lengthy VAR review, the goal was ruled out for offside, leaving Croatia heartbroken as Portugal celebrated qualification.

Luka Modrić’s Emotional Farewell?

The defeat may mark the end of Luka Modrić’s remarkable FIFA World Cup journey. The Croatian captain received a standing ovation after the final whistle, closing what could be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage. Throughout his international career, Modrić inspired Croatia with exceptional leadership, consistency and world-class performances.

📺 Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 Live in India

Indian football fans can watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 LIVE on ZEE5 with commentary available in Malayalam, Hindi, English and Bangla. Television coverage is also available through Unite8 Sports.

📅 FIFA World Cup 2026 Fixtures – 4 July (IST)

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Fixtures for 4 July (IST) feature two remaining Round of 32 matches before the Round of 16 begins. Argentina face Cabo Verde in Miami, Colombia meet Ghana in Kansas City, while Canada take on Morocco in the day’s knockout clash.

📺 Live Streaming: Watch all FIFA World Cup 2026 matches live on ZEE5 with Malayalam, Hindi, English, and Bangla commentary. Television coverage is available via Unite8 Sports.

Editorial Note

This article on the Portugal vs Croatia FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match was prepared by the Kerala TV Editorial Team, based on the official match report and media release shared by the ZEE5 FIFA Media Team.