2-1! Ronaldo ends goalless streak with a penalty as Portugal fights back to reach the round of 16, with the next opponent making a tough path to the quarterfinals a certainty.

03/07/2026 10:35:27 TrophyTracker

On July 3rd Beijing time, the World Cup knockout stage's round of 16 commenced, wrapping up a thrilling clash between top contender Portugal and Croatia. The match was filled with twists and turns as Portugal overturned a 1-0 deficit to beat Croatia 2-1, earning a spot in the round of 16. Ronaldo ended his World Cup knockout goal drought with a penalty, scoring his first such goal in the elimination rounds—quite an achievement!

As European powerhouses, both Portugal and Croatia boast significant strength. Portugal excels in midfield but has a mediocre defense, while Croatia, though aging, is full of resilience. Thus, the battle between the two for a spot in the round of 16 drew major attention. The reunion of Ronaldo and Modrić, former Real Madrid teammates, was also a highlight on the pitch.

The first half saw both sides trading attacks with one shot on target each, as Portugal dominated possession and shots without scoring. After the break, Croatia made the first substitution and quickly found the net, with Perišić opening the scoring to put Croatia ahead. Portugal responded with immediate changes to intensify the attack. Ronaldo had a goal ruled out for offside, but soon after, Vlašić fouled a Portuguese player, conceding a penalty. Ronaldo stepped up and calmly slotted it home, bravely going down the middle to make it 1-1. The game then became evenly matched with both sides going back and forth. In the final moments of stoppage time, Leão assisted substitute Ramos for a late winner. However, during extended injury time, Croatia's Gvardiol scored what seemed to be a last-gasp equalizer, but it was disallowed for offside, allowing Portugal to hold on for a 2-1 victory, avoiding extra time.

In this match, Ronaldo finally ended his World Cup knockout scoring drought—truly no easy task—leading Portugal to the round of 16. Croatia, despite the loss, exited with honor, standing tall in defeat, and Modrić's effort was truly moving.

With Portugal's advancement, 12 of the tournament's round of 16 spots have been filled, with Portugal being the 12th team to qualify. Portugal's next opponent is already set: tournament favorite Spain. The clash between Yamal and Ronaldo adds another layer of intrigue. Portugal faces a tougher challenge to win, so let's wait and see!