Portugal secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Croatia, thanks to a late goal from substitute Goncalo Ramos, which propelled them into the last 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The decisive moment came in the fourth minute of stoppage time when Ramos connected with a precise pass from Rafael Leao, sealing the win for Portugal in a match played under the sweltering Toronto heat.

Ronaldo's Impact and Croatia's Disappointment

In a dramatic finish, Croatia believed they had equalized in the dying moments of the match, only for Josko Gvardiol's goal to be ruled out for offside, leaving the Croatian side in disbelief. Earlier in the match, Cristiano Ronaldo played a crucial role by converting a penalty that leveled the score after Ivan Perisic had given Croatia the lead in the 53rd minute. This marked Ronaldo's first goal in the knockout stage of a World Cup, adding another highlight to his illustrious international career as Portugal prepares to face Spain in Dallas on Monday.

Match Highlights

Perisic stunned the Portuguese defense by slipping the ball under goalkeeper Diogo Costa, but Ronaldo quickly responded, having a goal disallowed for offside shortly after. The turning point came when Renato Veiga was fouled by Nikola Vlasic in the penalty area, prompting a VAR review that led to the referee awarding a penalty. Ronaldo confidently struck the ball straight down the middle, celebrating with enthusiasm.

Despite Croatia creating more opportunities throughout the match, including a close header from Mario Pasalic that narrowly missed the target, it was Ramos's late goal that ultimately secured Portugal's advancement. Ronaldo was substituted in the 81st minute, making way for Ruben Neves as Portugal held on to their lead in a pulsating encounter.