Portugal eliminates Croatia 2-1 in dramatic World Cup knockout match

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jul 3, 2026, 4:05 AM

Last updated Jul 3, 2026

Portugal eliminates Croatia 2-1 in dramatic World Cup knockout match
Summary

Portugal secured a place in the round of 16 with a 2-1 victory over Croatia at Toronto Stadium. After a goalless first half, Croatia took the lead through Ivan Perisic, but Portugal equalized with a Cristiano Ronaldo penalty. In the dying moments, Josko Gvardiol's potential equalizer was ruled offside after video review, sealing Croatia's exit from the tournament. Both teams exhibited fierce determination, with Portugal's Diogo Costa making crucial saves to maintain their advantage as the match concluded.

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By the Numbers
  • Portugal wins 2-1 against Croatia in the World Cup knockout stage.
  • Ivan Perisic scored first for Croatia in the 53rd minute.
  • Cristiano Ronaldo equalized with a penalty later in the second half.
  • Josko Gvardiol's late goal was ruled offside after VAR review.
  • Match took place at Toronto Stadium on July 3.
Latest Updates
  • 4:05 AMYahoo SportsCroatia vs. Portugal: What happened in those final, chaotic minutes
What they're saying
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Portugal advanced to the round of 16 after a 2-1 win against Croatia at Toronto Stadium on Thursday. Croatia legend Luka Modrić, age 40 and likely playing for the last time at a World Cup, looked crestfallen at the final whistle. The 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo lives to fight another day and couldn't hide his relief when just moments earlier he stood helplessly on the sidelines in anguish, believing Portugal had blown it.

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