Ronaldo Scores as Portugal Comeback Eliminates Croatia at World Cup 2026

Portugal have eliminated Croatia at the World Cup 2026 following a dramatic comeback.

Philips News reports that Portugal came from behind to defeat Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash on Thursday night, with veteran captain Cristiano Ronaldo and substitute Gonçalo Ramos scoring to send Roberto Martínez‘s side into the last 16 after an eventful encounter filled with VAR drama.

After a goalless opening half dominated by Portugal, Croatia struck first in the 53rd minute through Ivan Perišić, who finished clinically to stun the Portuguese. Ronaldo thought he had restored parity just minutes later when he fired home from close range, but the effort was ruled out for offside following a VAR review.

Portugal eventually found their equaliser in the 68th minute after a VAR check awarded a penalty for a foul on Renato Veiga inside the box. Ronaldo stepped up and calmly converted from the spot, registering his first-ever goal in a FIFA World Cup knockout match and breathing new life into Portugal’s campaign.

Meanwhile, PhilipsNews reports that the match produced more late drama as Gonçalo Ramos headed Portugal in front in the 90+4th minute from Rafael Leão‘s cross to complete the comeback. Croatia believed they had forced extra time deep into stoppage time when Joško Gvardiol found the net, but the goal was chalked off after another VAR review confirmed an offside infringement, sealing Portugal’s place in the Round of 16 of the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026.