Cristiano Ronaldo netted his inaugural World Cup knockout-stage goal, while substitute Goncalo Ramos secured a stoppage-time winner, propelling Portugal to a 2-1 victory over Croatia on Thursday. This win ensures Portugal’s progression to the tournament’s last 16, where they will meet Spain.
In a dramatic moment during extra time, Croatia appeared to have equalized in the 103rd minute through Josko Gvardiol. However, a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review revealed that the ball had deflected off Igor Matanovic before reaching Gvardiol, who was in an offside position. Consequently, the goal was overturned, confirming Portugal’s advancement. This decision sparked protests from Croatian fans, some of whom threw debris onto the field after the match concluded.
Portugal dominated possession in the first half but struggled to break through Croatia’s defense. The visitors took the lead in the 53rd minute when Ivan Perisic controlled a pass from Josip Stanisic and finished at the far post. Portugal responded in the 68th minute when Nikola Vlasic fouled Renato Veiga inside the penalty area, leading to a penalty that Ronaldo calmly converted. This goal marked Ronaldo’s first in a World Cup knockout match and made him the oldest player to score at this stage of the tournament.
Ronaldo was substituted in the 81st minute, yet Portugal sealed their victory in stoppage time with Ramos heading in the decisive goal. Reflecting on his crucial contribution, Ramos said, “I love those types of moments. I want to be in the big moment.”
The triumph held special significance for Portugal, coming a day before the first anniversary of forward Diogo Jota’s tragic death in a car accident. Before kickoff, an image of Jota was displayed on the stadium screens, and fans honored him with a standing ovation in the 21st minute. After the final whistle, an emotional Ronaldo donned Jota’s number 21 jersey, visibly moved. He later shared on social media, “We won for us, Diogo and Portugal.”
The intense match also featured a poignant encounter between two seasoned legends. While Ronaldo’s World Cup journey continues, Croatia’s 38-year-old captain Luka Modric faces uncertainty about his international future. The former Real Madrid teammates shared a heartfelt embrace following the game.
Portugal will now travel to Dallas to face their Iberian rivals Spain on Monday, with a coveted quarter-final berth at stake against either Belgium or the United States.
