Portugal advances to last 16 after dramatic win over Croatia
Portugal secured a place in the World Cup last 16 after defeating Croatia 2-1 in a match marked by late drama and a controversial disallowed goal. The victory sets up a clash with Spain in the next round.
The game, held at Toronto Stadium, saw Croatia take the lead through Ivan Perisic. However, Cristiano Ronaldo equalised from the penalty spot, marking his first-ever World Cup knockout stage goal. The winning goal for Portugal came from Goncalo Ramos in added time.
Match Highlights and Controversies
The first half saw Portugal largely dominate, creating several opportunities. Early on, Rafael Leao set up Bruno Fernandes, whose shots were saved by Dominik Livakovic and blocked by the defence. Pedro Neto was a persistent threat for Portugal, delivering numerous crosses into the box, though none resulted in a goal. Croatia, despite being on the back foot, maintained their composure and had a plan to isolate Martin Baturina against Joao Cancelo, aiming to create chances for Ante Budimir.
The mood of the game shifted significantly in the second half. Croatia, after bringing on Igor Matanovic for Budimir at half-time, took the lead eight minutes into the second period. Josep Stanisic delivered a cross from the right, which Perisic controlled and drove past Diogo Costa. Following this, Croatia had another goal disallowed for offside, scored by Petar Sucic, and Sucic later had a strong shot saved by Costa.
Amidst Croatia‘s resurgence, Leao struck the crossbar with a 25-yard effort, and Ronaldo had a goal ruled out for offside. A crucial moment arrived when Livakovic inadvertently put the ball out for a corner after a backpass. Following a VAR review, a penalty was awarded to Portugal after Vlasic was deemed to have fouled Leao. Ronaldo converted the penalty, bringing Portugal level.
The match continued with high intensity, and Croatia created further chances, with Mateo Kovacic having two long-range efforts saved and Matanovic‘s shot at the near post also being saved. Sucic had another goal disallowed for offside. Ronaldo was later substituted for Ruben Neves, a decision that appeared to reflect Roberto Martinez‘s tactical approach.
Portugal then regained control, with play often directed towards Leao. In added time, Goncalo Ramos scored the winning goal for Portugal from a Rafael Leao cross. The celebrations for this goal were extensive, leading the referee to add extra minutes to added time. In the final moments, Croatia scored again, but Josko Gvardiol‘s goal was disallowed for offside after a VAR check, marking the fourth offside decision against Croatia in the match. The decision led to plastic bottles being thrown onto the pitch in protest.
Impact on Key Players and Future Fixtures
For Cristiano Ronaldo, the victory ensures his World Cup journey continues. Despite being substituted, which was described as an almost unprecedented act, his penalty goal was a significant contribution. This goal was his first in the knockout stages of the World Cup. There had been speculation before the game that Ronaldo, at 41, might retire from international duty if Portugal were defeated.
In contrast, the match likely marked the final World Cup appearance for Croatia captain Luka Modric, who is 40 years old. His departure from the tournament signifies the end of an era for the veteran midfielder.
Portugal now prepares to face Spain in the last 16. This upcoming fixture will be a rematch of the 2025 Nations League final, where Ronaldo‘s side emerged victorious against the European Champions. The performance of Portugal‘s midfield, which includes players like Vitinha, Joao Neves, and Bruno Fernandes, has been a topic of discussion, with some suggesting they have struggled to dictate play despite their individual accolades. Roberto Martinez faces a selection challenge, particularly regarding whether Goncalo Ramos should start in place of Ronaldo, especially after Ramos‘s decisive goal.
Goncalo Ramos expressed his enjoyment of high-stakes games, stating, "It’s difficult because it’s a game if you don’t win, you go home. But for me, especially, I love those types of moments, I love those types of games, I want to play every game like that, I want to be in the big moment." The match concluded with Portugal‘s 2-1 victory over Croatia.
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Source: skysports.com
Reuben Castle is the Sports News Writer at News GB, covering rugby union, golf and boxing with six years of reporting experience. He moved from print into digital sport news. He holds a degree in Journalism from Coventry University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Coventry, he follows the Open Championship and amateur boxing. “Accuracy first; the analysis can follow.”
