Toronto, July 3: Portugal scored a stoppage-time winner to defeat Croatia 2-1 and book their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16, where they will face Spain.
Croatia captain Luka Modric made what is expected to be his final FIFA World Cup appearance as Portugal secured victory through a late header from substitute Goncalo Ramos.
Portugal dominated possession from the opening stages and created several chances in the first half. Bruno Fernandes tested goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic early, while Cristiano Ronaldo, Renato Veiga and Rafael Leao also came close. However, Croatia’s defence held firm as the teams went into the break goalless.
Croatia took the lead early in the second half when Ivan Perisic finished from close range after finding space at the far post. The goal saw Perisic surpass Davor Suker to become Croatia’s highest World Cup goalscorer.
Portugal responded with sustained pressure. Rafael Leao struck the crossbar, while Ronaldo had an equaliser ruled out for offside.
Manager Roberto Martinez introduced four substitutions on the hour mark, including Goncalo Ramos. The changes quickly influenced the contest as Renato Veiga was fouled inside the penalty area during a corner situation. Following a VAR review, Portugal were awarded a penalty, which Ronaldo converted in the 67th minute to level the score at 1-1.
Ronaldo was substituted in the 80th minute as Croatia searched for another breakthrough. Mateo Kovacic struck the post, while Petar Sucic had another effort ruled out for offside.
With extra time approaching, Portugal secured the winner in the fourth minute of stoppage time. Rafael Leao delivered a cross into the box, and Goncalo Ramos headed home to seal the victory.
Croatia believed they had equalised moments later through Josko Gvardiol, but after a lengthy VAR review, the goal was disallowed due to an offside in the build-up involving Igor Matanovic.
The victory extends Portugal’s unbeaten record against Croatia in competitive matches and sends Roberto Martinez’s side into a Round of 16 meeting with Spain.