World Cup Heartbreak: Portugal Edges Croatia in Dramatic Match

Luka Modric attempted to comfort Mateo Kovacic after Croatia’s loss to Portugal during the round of 32 World Cup match in Toronto on July 2, 2026. The match concluded when referee Espen Eskås ended play in the dramatic 109th minute. Portugal advanced with a 2-1 victory, moving to the round of 16. Croatia was denied a late equalizer as Josko Gvardiol’s goal was disallowed due to offside following a video review.

At 40 years old, Luka Modrić appeared devastated, possibly marking his final World Cup appearance. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo, aged 41, continues in the tournament. He expressed relief, having feared an early exit just moments before.

The First Goal in Added Time

Regulation time ended with an additional 10 minutes indicated. In this tense period, Portugal’s Rafael Leao delivered a cross for substitute Gonçalo Ramos. Ramos’s header sailed past Croatia’s goalkeeper, inciting celebrations from the Portuguese side.

Croatia Strikes Back

As the match reached the 103rd minute, Croatia remained resolute. Ivan Perisic’s cross found Igor Mantanovic, whose flick reached Mario Palasic. The ball deflected and was netted by Gvardiol. However, video replay showed Palasic in an offside position when touched by Mantanovic. The contact, detected by sensors in the ball, led to the disallowance of the goal. Croatia’s fans, engulfed in disappointment, reacted with frustration.

Initial Match Developments

The first half offered little action, but excitement sparked when Perisic scored for Croatia in the 53rd minute. Portugal’s Leao nearly equalized with a shot hitting the crossbar. Ronaldo’s potential knockout stage goal was negated due to offside, a recurring theme in this match.

Portugal made several key substitutions, retaining Ronaldo as coach Roberto Martinez looked to influence the game’s direction. A pivotal moment occurred with Ronaldo scoring a penalty, leveling the match—a significant personal milestone.

Impressive Goalkeeping and Emotional Farewell

Croatia created several scoring opportunities, yet Diogo Costa, Portugal’s goalkeeper, displayed outstanding saves. He denied Kovacic and Matanovic, maintaining Portugal’s lead. Petar Sucic’s effort was also offside, reinforcing the theme of the match.

In a poignant scene, Ronaldo swapped jerseys for one honoring former teammate Diogo Jota, commemorating the player’s passing. Croatia’s coach Zlatko Dalić expressed criticism towards VAR, lamenting its impact on the game’s spontaneity.