Portugal snatches dramatic win over Croatia, to face Spain in round of 16

On July 3, 2026, Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 (0-0 at halftime) in the first round of the World Cup knockout stage. Croatia took the lead in the 53rd minute through Ivan Perišić, who fired home from close range. Portugal equalized in the 68th minute when Cristiano Ronaldo converted a penalty.

The match reached its climax in stoppage time. In the fourth minute of added time, Rafa Leão crossed the ball and Gonçalo Ramos headed it into the net from close range to secure the win. Croatia had chances to equalize: Mateo Kovačić hit the post, and Joško Gvardiol had a goal disallowed for offside after a VAR review. Earlier, Petar Sučić's goal was also ruled out for offside.

Croatian legend Luka Modrić likely played his final World Cup match. Portugal will now face Spain in the round of 16, after Spain defeated Austria 3-0 earlier.

This is the first World Cup featuring 48 teams, hosted across Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, advanced to the knockout stage. The semifinals are scheduled for July 14 and 15, the third-place match on July 18, and the final on July 19. Argentina are the defending champions, having beaten France on penalties in 2022.