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The 2026 FIFA World Cup served up its most dramatic match yet as Portugal snatched a 94th-minute winner against Croatia to secure a 2-1 victory and a last-16 clash with European champions Spain.
What Happened?
Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41 the oldest player to ever start a World Cup knockout match, opened his knockout-stage account with a second-half penalty after the Video Assistant Referee spotted a foul at a corner. But it was substitute Goncalo Ramos who stole the show, rising above two defenders to head home a Rafael Leao cross deep into stoppage time.
Croatia thought they had snatched extra time when Josko Gvardiol bundled home in the 13th minute of added time, but VAR ruled it out for offside after replays showed Mario Pasalic had touched the ball from an offside position before Gvardiol scored. Replays confirmed the slightest of touches — a cruel ending for the 2018 runners-up.
The Match That Had Everything
The game at Dallas Stadium, Texas delivered more twists than a Hollywood script. Portugal dominated the first half but could not break through. Croatia struck first through Ivan Perisic, who rifled a shot into the corner eight minutes into the second half after Ruben Dias only half-cleared a cross.
Substitute Igor Matanovic thought he had doubled Croatia’s lead two minutes later, but the offside flag went up. Then came a frantic spell where Rafael Leao rattled the crossbar and Ronaldo saw a cute dinked finish ruled out for a marginal offside.
Just as it looked like Ronaldo would be replaced, VAR intervened — a foul on Renato Veiga at a corner was spotted, and Ronaldo converted from the spot. It was his first World Cup knockout goal, silencing critics who had long pointed to that gap in his resume.
Ronaldo vs Modric: A Generation’s Last Dance
Both Ballon d’Or winners turned 41 this year, and this match marked the likely World Cup farewell for one of them. Luka Modric, at 40, delivered a midfield masterclass but could not drag Croatia over the line.
Ronaldo was visibly unhappy when substituted in the 81st minute, but he was front and center of the post-match celebrations. In an emotional moment, he pulled on the jersey of his late former teammate Diogo Jota — just hours shy of the one-year anniversary of Jota’s death — and led the team to their adoring fans with tears in his eyes.
Upcoming World Cup 2026 Knockout Schedule
| Match | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Portugal vs Spain | Mon, July 6 | Dallas Stadium, Texas |
| Argentina vs Cape Verde | Sat, July 4 | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta |
| England vs DR Congo | Wed, July 8 | Atlanta |
| Australia/Egypt vs Argentina/Cape Verde | TBD | TBD |
FAQ
Where is the 2026 World Cup being held?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico — the first time three nations have co-hosted the tournament. The United States hosts the majority of matches, including all knockout games now underway. Dallas, Atlanta, and other US cities are staging these dramatic knockout rounds.
Who are the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup?
Brazil, Argentina (with Lionel Messi leading their attack), and defending champions France entered as tournament favorites. European champions Spain, who face Portugal next, have looked formidable. Host nation USA advanced from the group stage, and Portugal — despite their aging superstar — showed immense heart against Croatia.
How can I watch the World Cup 2026 from the US?
Matches are broadcast live on Fox Sports (English) and Telemundo/Universo (Spanish) in the United States. Streaming is available via Fubo, Sling TV, and YouTube TV with the right sports packages. BBC and ITV are covering the tournament for UK viewers.
When is Portugal vs Spain in the World Cup 2026?
The Iberian derby between Portugal and Spain kicks off on Monday, July 6 at Dallas Stadium in Texas. Kickoff is at 8:00 PM BST / 3:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM PT. The winner advances to the quarter-finals.
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