Portugal Fight Back To Beat Croatia And Reach World Cup Round Of 16
Sports Updated: 03 July 2026 11:23 EAT
Photo courtesy : Portugal dedicated their win against Croatia to the late team mate Diogo Jota
Portugal came from behind to defeat Croatia 2-1 after extra time in a dramatic FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash at Toronto Stadium, booking their place in the last 16. Roberto Martínez's side recovered from a second-half setback, with Gonçalo Ramos scoring a stoppage-time winner to send the 2016 European champions through to the next stage.
Croatia took the lead in the 53rd minute when veteran winger Ivan Perišić found the net after a lively start to the second half. Zlatko Dalić's men looked on course for victory as they frustrated Portugal for long periods with disciplined defending and quick counter-attacks.
Portugal drew level in the 68th minute after a VAR review awarded a penalty for a foul on Renato Veiga inside the area. Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick, scoring his first-ever goal in the knockout stages of a FIFA World Cup and bringing his side back into the contest.
As the match appeared destined for extra time, substitute Gonçalo Ramos completed Portugal's comeback in the fourth minute of stoppage time. The striker headed home a precise cross from Rafael Leão to spark celebrations among the Portuguese players and supporters.
The closing moments were filled with drama as Croatia believed they had forced extra time with a late equaliser, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside following a VAR review. The decision was met with strong protests from Croatian players and coaching staff.
Portugal had dominated possession throughout much of the match but struggled to break down Croatia's organised defence until Martínez introduced fresh attacking options from the bench. The substitutions proved decisive, with Ramos and Leão combining for the winning goal.
The victory sends Portugal into the Round of 16, where they will face Spain in a highly anticipated Iberian derby. Spain secured their place in the next round earlier after a convincing 3-0 victory over Austria.
For Croatia, the defeat ended another impressive World Cup campaign. Captain Luka Modrić, who has led his country to memorable World Cup performances over the past decade, could have played his final match at football's biggest tournament.
Portugal will now turn their attention to the knockout clash against Spain as they continue their quest for a first FIFA World Cup title, while Croatia leave the tournament after another spirited display despite falling just short of progression.
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FELIX MAKONA
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