Portugal booked their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after coming from behind to defeat Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic knockout encounter, with substitute Gonçalo Ramos heading home a stoppage-time winner.
Ramos struck in the 94th minute, connecting with a pinpoint cross from Rafael Leão to send Portugal into the last 16, where they will meet neighbours Spain in one of the tournament’s most anticipated clashes.
The thrilling contest featured late drama, VAR controversy and another historic milestone for Cristiano Ronaldo.
After a closely contested first half, Croatia broke the deadlock early in the second period through veteran winger Ivan Perišić.
The experienced attacker finished clinically to give Zlatko Dalić’s side the advantage and put Portugal under pressure.
However, Croatia’s lead did not last long as VAR intervened at the other end.
Portugal were awarded a penalty following a Video Assistant Referee review, allowing Cristiano Ronaldo to step up and level the scores.
The 41-year-old calmly converted from the spot to register his first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout-stage goal, while also becoming the first player aged 41 or older to feature in a World Cup knockout match.
The goal marked another remarkable chapter in Ronaldo’s legendary international career.
The match was dominated by VAR decisions, with three goals disallowed over the course of the evening.
Croatia had two goals ruled out for offside, including a late strike from Joško Gvardiol that would have restored their lead.
Portugal also saw Cristiano Ronaldo denied after another VAR review chalked off what initially appeared to be his second goal.
With extra time looming, Rafael Leão produced a moment of quality, delivering an inviting cross into the penalty area where substitute Gonçalo Ramos rose highest to head home the dramatic winner in the 94th minute.
Portugal Set for Iberian Derby
The victory sends Portugal into the Round of 16, where they will face Spain in a blockbuster Iberian derby.
Both sides have impressed during the tournament and will now battle for a place in the quarter-finals in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the knockout stage.
Conclusion
Portugal showed resilience and composure to overturn Croatia’s lead and keep their World Cup dream alive.
While Ronaldo once again made history, it was substitute Gonçalo Ramos who emerged as the hero, ensuring Portugal remain firmly in contention as they prepare for a mouth-watering showdown against Spain.
