Portugal 2-1 Croatia: Ronaldo penalty & Ramos late winner highlights

In one of the most dramatic matches of the World Cup 2026 knockout stage, Portugal edged Croatia 2-1 at Toronto's BMO Field to seal their spot in the Round of 16. The contest was a rollercoaster of emotions, with VAR playing a pivotal role. After a dominant first half from Portugal, where Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leao came close, it was Croatia who stunned the crowd. Ivan Perisic broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute, smashing home from Josip Stanisic's low cross. Portugal's response was immediate. Rafael Leao rattled the crossbar in the 58th minute, and Cristiano Ronaldo had a goal ruled out for a tight offside just moments later. Then came the turning point: a VAR review awarded Portugal a penalty after a foul on Renato Veiga. Ronaldo stepped up and in the 68th minute, sent the keeper the wrong way, scoring his first-ever World Cup knockout goal. He became the oldest goalscorer in the history of the tournament. The Croatian onslaught continued as Mateo Kovacic hit the post and had a goal disallowed. Just as extra time loomed, substitute Goncalo Ramos, who had replaced Ronaldo, powered a header from Leao's cross into the net in the 90+4th minute. Croatia thought they had snatched a draw when Josko Gvardiol scored in the 13th minute of stoppage time, but a VAR check using Connected Ball Technology ruled it out for offside against Igor Matanovic. The match was also a poignant farewell, likely for Luka Modric, playing his final World Cup game. Portugal will now face Spain in what promises to be a titanic clash.