Ronaldo scores as Portugal comeback to win but Croatia denied by late VAR

Portugal secured a 2-1 victory over Croatia in the FIFA World Cup 2026, advancing to the last 16. Goncalo Ramos scored the winning goal in stoppage time, assisted by Rafael Leao. Cristiano Ronaldo equalized for Portugal from a penalty, which was awarded after a VAR check for a foul on Renato Veiga by Nikola Vlasic. Croatia had initially taken the lead in the 53rd minute through Ivan Perisic. In the final moments, Croatia had a goal disallowed for offside, a decision that left them stunned. Portugal will next face Spain in Dallas.

Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in a World Cup round of 32 match on Thursday in Toronto. Ivan Perisic opened the scoring for Croatia in the 53rd minute. Cristiano Ronaldo equalized for Portugal in the 68th minute with a penalty kick, marking his first knockout stage goal in the World Cup. Goncalo Ramos scored the winning goal for Portugal in stoppage time with a header from a pass by Rafael Leao. A late Croatian goal was disallowed for offside, leading to protests from fans. Portugal advances to face Spain in the round of 16, while Luka Modrić's fifth World Cup bid ends with Croatia's elimination.

The FIFA World Cup continues with the Round of 32 knockout stage in North America. On Thursday, July 2nd, Spain will face Austria in Los Angeles, Portugal will play Croatia in Toronto, and Switzerland will compete against Algeria in Vancouver. Spain is predicted to win against Austria, with a 79.5% chance of advancing according to simulations. Portugal is favored over Croatia, holding a 54.5% chance of winning in regulation time. Switzerland is also expected to defeat Algeria, having won their previous friendly encounters. The article also highlights England's progression to the last 16, thanks to Harry Kane's late goals against DR Congo.

Cristiano Ronaldo has generated significant excitement in Toronto ahead of Portugal's World Cup match against Croatia. Hundreds of fans lined streets and gathered at various locations to catch glimpses of the football icon, mirroring the fervor from his last visit in 2009. The current visit marks Ronaldo's potential last World Cup appearance. The match, taking place at the same stadium as his 2009 friendly, holds deep significance for Toronto's large Portuguese-Canadian community, representing a "once-in-a-lifetime moment" where their heritage and passion for football collide. High ticket prices, reaching up to $30,000 CAD, have made attending the sold-out game unaffordable for many.