Cristiano Ronaldo, Goncalo Ramos Lead Portugal's 2-1 Comeback Win Over Croatia

Portugal produced a spirited comeback to defeat Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup knockout clash on Thursday, with Goncalo Ramos heading home a stoppage time winner after Cristiano Ronaldo had earlier levelled the scores from the penalty spot. The thrilling contest also marked the end of Luka Modric's remarkable World Cup journey as Croatia bowed out after a heartbreaking finish.

Croatia looked on course for a famous victory when veteran winger Ivan Perisic broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute , finishing confidently from Josip Stanisic's cross after Portugal struggled to create clear opportunities in the opening stages.

Portugal responded with greater urgency as they pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Their persistence paid off in the 68th minute when Cristiano Ronaldo calmly converted a penalty, bringing Portugal back into the contest. The goal was particularly significant for the Portuguese captain as it marked his first ever knockout stage goal in a FIFA World Cup .

With extra time appearing inevitable, Portugal found the decisive breakthrough deep into stoppage time. Rafael Leao delivered a perfectly weighted cross into the penalty area, where Goncalo Ramos rose above the Croatian defence to head home the winner and spark wild celebrations among the Portuguese players and fans.

Croatia believed they had forced the match into extra time moments later when Mario Pasalic found the back of the net. However, after a VAR review , the goal was ruled out for offside, denying Croatia a dramatic equaliser. The decision triggered angry reactions from Croatian supporters, with bottles thrown onto the pitch and loud whistles echoing around the stadium.

The defeat brings an emotional end to Luka Modric's fifth attempt at lifting the World Cup trophy. The Croatian midfield maestro had inspired his nation to a runners up finish in 2018 and a third place finish in 2022 , cementing his legacy as one of the country's greatest footballers.

Portugal, meanwhile, march into the Round of 16 , where an enticing clash against Spain awaits on Monday. With Ronaldo continuing to deliver in key moments and younger stars like Ramos stepping up on the biggest stage, Portugal will head into the next round full of confidence as they continue their pursuit of World Cup glory.