By Daily Review Online
Portugal booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic Round of 32 clash at Toronto Stadium in Canada on Friday.
Portugal dominated possession and created the better chances in the first half, but Croatia remained dangerous on the counterattack with their physical style and precise passing. Despite Portugal’s territorial advantage, the teams went into the break level as Croatia’s defence held firm.
Croatia broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute when veteran winger Ivan Perišić controlled the ball at the far post before firing past the goalkeeper to give his side the lead.
Portugal responded strongly and, after an earlier effort was ruled out for offside, Cristiano Ronaldo equalised from the penalty spot in the 68th minute, scoring his first-ever World Cup knockout-stage goal.
As extra time beckoned, Portugal snatched victory deep into stoppage time. In the 90+4th minute, Gonçalo Ramos headed home a precise cross from Rafael Leão to complete the comeback.
Croatia believed they had forced extra time when Joško Gvardiol scored in the 90+13th minute after a flick-on by Mario Pašalić. However, a VAR review ruled Pašalić offside in the build-up, and the goal was disallowed.
The decision sparked protests from Croatia’s players, while some fans threw bottles and other objects onto the pitch, causing a lengthy delay before play resumed.
After 19 minutes of added time, Portugal held on for a 2-1 victory and advanced to the Round of 16, where they will face Spain. Croatia, meanwhile, exited the tournament.