Croatia believed they kept their FIFA World Cup hopes alive with a late game-tying goal. However, VAR determined Mario Pasalic was offside, meaning Portugal advanced instead. Gonçalo Ramos secured a 2-1 victory for Portugal with a stunning header in the 94th minute. This marked only the second time in Portuguese World Cup history they needed to come from behind to win, showcasing their resilience.
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Luka Modric and his Croatian teammates faced disappointment after the 2-1 loss against Portugal at Toronto Stadium on July 2, 2026. Croatia argued the ball never touched Igor Matanovic’s head during the controversial VAR review that ruled Pasalic offside. Recently introduced ball technology confirmed the referee’s decision. This was the 10th goal VAR overturned in the current World Cup.
In another match, Gabriel Martinelli’s late goal saved Brazil from a Japan upset. Due to the ruling, Croatia exited the tournament, ending legend Luka Modrić’s likely final World Cup. The 40-year-old midfielder completed his fifth World Cup appearance.
Meanwhile, another legendary player advanced. Cristiano Ronaldo made history during the match. At 41 years and 147 days old, he became the oldest to play and score in a World Cup knockout stage. Portugal trailed when Ivan Perisic scored early, but a foul in Croatia’s box in the 67th minute led to Ronaldo’s equalizing penalty, marking his first career knockout goal.
Ronaldo celebrated with his signature “SIU!” after leveling the score, 1-1. Minutes earlier, another potential goal for him was voided due to offside. Modrić and Ronaldo, former Real Madrid teammates, also became the first players over 40 to play the same match.
Afterward, Ronaldo paid tribute to former Portugal teammate Diogo Jota by wearing his jersey. Jota died in a car accident the previous year. The team captured a photo with Ronaldo holding Jota’s jersey.
With their Round of 32 victory secured, Portugal now prepares to face Spain, who defeated Austria 3-0, in the Round of 16. The match will take place at Dallas Stadium on July 6 at 3 p.m. ET.
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