Played at Toronto Stadium on Friday, the contest appeared headed for extra time before Gonçalo Ramos struck deep into injury time to send Portugal through. The victory sets up a high-profile Round of 16 showdown against Spain on July 7, while Croatia’s campaign ended in heartbreak.

The match remained goalless through the first half despite Portugal enjoying greater possession and creating the better opportunities. Croatia defended resolutely and managed to frustrate Ronaldo and his teammates for long periods.

The breakthrough finally arrived eight minutes after the restart. Josip Stanišić delivered a dangerous cross into the penalty area, where veteran winger Ivan Perišić met the ball clinically to put Croatia ahead in the 53rd minute.

Croatia’s lead intensified the pressure on Portugal, but the response came through the player who has defined much of the nation’s footballing history.

In the 68th minute, Portugal were awarded a penalty after a challenge inside the box. Ronaldo stepped up and converted from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and bringing his side level at 1-1.

The goal carried historic significance. It was Ronaldo’s first-ever goal in a World Cup knockout match and made him the oldest player to score in the tournament’s knockout stage. At 41 years and 147 days, the Portuguese captain surpassed the previous record held by former teammate Pepe.

Ronaldo’s celebration also carried an emotional message. The veteran forward paid tribute to late Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota by displaying a commemorative jersey, marking one year since the player’s passing.

As the match entered stoppage time, extra time seemed inevitable. However, Portugal found one final opening. Rafael Leão delivered a cross into the area and Gonçalo Ramos rose highest to head the ball into the net, giving Portugal a dramatic 2-1 advantage in the dying moments.

Croatia thought they had rescued the match almost immediately. A late attack resulted in the ball finding the back of the net, sparking celebrations among Croatian players and supporters. Those celebrations were short-lived.

Following a VAR review, Mario Pašalić was judged to be offside in the build-up, leading the referee to disallow the goal. The decision triggered angry reactions from sections of the Croatian support, with reports of bottles being thrown onto the field as fans protested the call.

The defeat was particularly emotional for Croatian captain Luka Modrić, who is widely expected to have played his final FIFA World Cup match. The veteran midfielder was visibly disappointed after the final whistle as Croatia’s tournament journey came to an end.

Elsewhere, Spain advanced comfortably with a convincing 3-0 victory over Austria in Los Angeles. Mikel Oyarzabal scored twice while Pedro Porro added another as Spain secured their first World Cup knockout victory since lifting the trophy in 2010.

Spain dominated possession throughout the contest and registered their fourth consecutive clean sheet of the tournament. Austria failed to record a single shot on target, allowing Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón a relatively quiet evening.

The performance was another statement from Spain’s young generation, led by 18-year-old winger Lamine Yamal, who has been one of the standout performers of the competition despite recently returning from injury.

With Portugal and Spain both advancing, football fans are now set for one of the most anticipated Round of 16 encounters of the FIFA World Cup. Ronaldo’s experience and Spain’s youthful energy promise a compelling battle for a place in the quarter-finals.

Brazil and Croatia have officially announced their squads for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, bringing major headlines from both teams as star players return, veterans prepare for historic appearances, and injury setbacks shake Spain’s campaign plans.

The announcement has added fresh excitement ahead of the tournament, which will feature 48 teams and will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 16 cities starting from June 11.

Neymar makes long-awaited return to Brazil squad

Five-time world champions Brazil have recalled star forward Neymar Jr after a gap of nearly three years. The 34-year-old forward, who last featured for Brazil in 2023, has been named in the squad by head coach Carlo Ancelotti after a detailed fitness review.

Ancelotti confirmed during the squad announcement in Rio de Janeiro that Neymar’s recent performances and improved fitness levels made him eligible for selection. He added that the forward is now physically ready to compete at the highest level.

Neymar will be playing his fourth FIFA World Cup, having previously represented Brazil in 2014, 2018, and 2022. His return is being seen as a major boost for Brazil’s attacking lineup as they aim for their sixth World Cup title. Brazil have been placed in Group C, where they will begin their campaign against Morocco on June 13, followed by matches against Haiti and Scotland.

Strong Brazilian squad with global stars

Brazil’s squad features several top European club players, including Alisson Becker, who returns after recovering from injury. Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr and Barcelona forward Raphinha will also lead Brazil’s attacking strength.

Young forward Endrick, just 19 years old, is also included, marking one of the rising talents expected to shine on the global stage. However, a notable omission from the squad is Chelsea striker Joao Pedro, who has been in excellent form in the Premier League this season. Brazil’s midfield includes experienced names such as Casemiro, Bruno Guimaraes, and Lucas Paqueta, providing balance between defense and attack.

Croatia name experienced squad with Modric at the helm

Croatia have also announced their 26-member squad, with legendary midfielder Luka Modric once again leading the team. At 40 years of age, Modric is set to play his fifth World Cup, making him one of the most experienced players in tournament history.

Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic expressed confidence that Modric will recover from a recent facial injury in time for their opening match against England on June 17. If he plays, Modric could also reach the milestone of 200 international appearances. Croatia’s squad also includes experienced forward Ivan Perisic, who has scored in the last three World Cups, making him a crucial part of their attacking strategy. The team, which finished as runners-up in 2018 and secured third place in 2022, will also face Panama and Ghana in Group L.

Spain suffer major injury setbacks

Spain have been dealt a major blow with young midfielder Fermin Lopez ruled out of the World Cup due to a fracture in his right foot. The injury occurred during a La Liga match for Barcelona against Real Betis. Medical reports confirmed that Lopez suffered a fifth metatarsal fracture, requiring surgery and ruling him out of the tournament entirely. Lopez was part of Spain’s successful Euro 2024 squad and had also played a key role in their Olympic gold medal victory at Paris 2024. Adding to Spain’s concerns, teenage sensation Lamine Yamal will also miss the opening match due to fitness issues, raising further concerns over squad depth. Spain will begin their World Cup campaign on June 15 against Cape Verde in Atlanta.

Tournament expectations rise ahead of kickoff

With major teams announcing their squads, expectations are rising for the expanded 48-team World Cup format. The tournament will see more nations competing than ever before, increasing global attention and competitiveness. Brazil enter the tournament as one of the favorites, driven by a blend of experienced stars and young talent. Croatia, meanwhile, continue to rely on their golden generation led by Modric, while Spain must now regroup after key injuries. The early squad announcements from France and Belgium have already set the tone for what promises to be one of the most competitive World Cups in history. Football fans around the world are now eagerly waiting for the final preparations and warm-up matches before the global spectacle begins in June.