With a thrilling win (2-1) over Croatia, Portugal would advance to the round of 16 at FIFA World Cup 2026. The victory came on the back of a fantastic third goal (scored by Ramos in the 93rd minute) that established the Selecao's place in the knockout round against Spain, their neighboring country, in what is sure to be an anticipated and exciting knockout match.
This match will be remembered by football fans for many different reasons: lots of VAR drama, 4 disallowed goals due to offside, and an aged icon reached a historical milestone.
Ronaldo Breaks Knockout Curse Amid VAR Chaos
Portugal was in control of the game generally and was very close to getting the first goal just four minutes in. Rafael Leão expertly assisted Bruno Fernandes, who was inside the box, yet Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic reacted outstandingly with a double save to deny the midfielder. After Portugal exerted more pressure, it was Croatia who got the first goal when the experienced winger Ivan Perisic scored the goal that gave the Vatreni a surprise lead.
Portugal reacted by increasing the level of their pressure and was soon rewarded with a penalty. The team captain and the forty-one-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo took the responsibility and, without any doubt, scored from the penalty spot. The successful penalty was a milestone for Ronaldo, as it represented the first goal he had ever scored in the knockout rounds of a FIFA World Cup.
Second-half action then turned into a tactical tussle decided by the referee’s flag. Amazing defenses forced no fewer than four goals offside. Late, Ronaldo thought he had given the Portuguese the victory, but again, the linesman pulled the flag. It all swung back again when Josko Gvardiol fired home what seemed a winner in added time, but the Croatian goal was controversially disallowed for a tight offside call in the move.
Ramos Completes the Comeback
In the final seconds of regulation time, Portugal broke down with the last gasp of extra time. Super-sub Goncalo Ramos made his run perfectly to score the winning goal, and as soon as he scored all of the Portuguese players and fans joined in celebrating on the field.
Who will Portugal face in the FIFA World Cup round of 16 after beating Croatia?
Portugal's next match will be against Spain in Arlington, Texas, on July 6. Luis de la Fuente's team ensured their round of 16 spot by crushing Austria 3-0. Spain comes to the Round of 16 with a perfect defensive record, having not let in a single goal in the group stage and the first knockout round combined.
Ronaldo and the rest of the team will have to be at their very best if they are to find a way through Spain's stubborn defense. The forthcoming clash will also be of great emotional significance for the Portuguese team as the game is scheduled just a day before the anniversary of the sad demise of forward Diogo Jota.
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