- Portugal Beat Croatia Late to Set Up World Cup Round of 16 Clash With Spain
- Gonçalo Ramos scored a stoppage time winner against Croatia.
- Cristiano Ronaldo also scored as Portugal reached the Round of 16.
Portugal secured a dramatic place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Gonçalo Ramos scored a stoppage time winner in a thrilling 2-1 victory over Croatia in Toronto.
The victory sends Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates into the next round, where they will face Spain on Monday.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the eagerly anticipated contest between two European heavyweights produced a tense first half, with both teams battling for control in midfield.
Portugal enjoyed more possession and created the better opportunities through Bruno Fernandes, but struggled to break down Croatia’s disciplined defence. Croatia, led by veteran midfielder Luka Modrić, threatened on the counterattack and from set pieces, but neither side found the breakthrough before halftime.
The match burst into life after the restart as Croatia took the lead through Ivan Perišić, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to put his side ahead.
Portugal responded quickly in a frantic second half that featured VAR reviews, disallowed goals and several controversial moments.
Cristiano Ronaldo restored parity from the penalty spot after Portugal were awarded a spot kick, setting up a tense finale as both teams searched for a winner.
Croatia came close to reclaiming the lead when Mateo Kovačić struck the post, while the officials ruled out several Croatian attacks for offside.
With extra time appearing inevitable, Portugal produced one final moment of quality deep into stoppage time.
Rafael Leão delivered a pinpoint cross into the penalty area, where Gonçalo Ramos rose highest to power a header beyond goalkeeper Dominik Livaković and send Portugal into the Round of 16.
Croatia thought they had forced extra time moments later, but VAR ruled out their late equaliser, confirming Portugal’s victory.
Portugal will now face Spain in one of the standout Round of 16 fixtures as they continue their quest for World Cup glory.
