Portugal Edges Croatia 2-1 in World Cup Knockout Thriller

Portugal secured a late 2-1 victory over Croatia in a tense 2026 World Cup Round of 16 match held in Toronto. The game saw multiple goals disallowed by VAR for offside calls, adding to the drama.

Croatia took the lead in the 8th minute of the second half through Ivan Perisic. The veteran player, now playing as a fullback, showed his attacking prowess by scoring from the left flank after a cross from Josip Stanisic. This goal marked Perisic's third World Cup appearance with a goal.

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With 41 years and 147 days, the Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo became in this duel on Canadian soil the oldest footballer to play a direct elimination match in a World Cup, in another record that adds to his legend.

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41 years and 147 days, set a new record as the oldest player to participate in a World Cup knockout stage match. He initially scored in the 16th minute of the second half, but the goal was disallowed by VAR for a marginal offside. Later, Ronaldo successfully converted a penalty in the 23rd minute, leveling the score after a foul on Renato Veiga was reviewed.

Despite scoring the equalizer, Ronaldo was substituted 10 minutes before the end, showing visible frustration. The decision by coach Roberto Martínez to replace him drew an unhappy reaction from the star player. In stoppage time, Gonçalo Ramos, a substitute, headed home the winning goal from a cross by Leao, sealing the victory for Portugal.

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If he had not noticed, the consequences could have been dire.