Portugal booked a place in the FIFA World Cup last 16 after defeating Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic knockout clash, with substitute Goncalo Ramos scoring a stoppage-time winner after Cristiano Ronaldo netted his first-ever goal in a World Cup knockout match.
Ramos headed home in the 94th minute from a pinpoint cross by Rafael Leao just as the contest appeared destined for extra time, sealing Portugal’s place in a last-16 meeting with Spain.
Croatia denied late equaliser
Croatia thought they had forced extra time deep into stoppage time when Josko Gvardiol bundled the ball into the net.
However, after a video assistant referee (VAR) review, the goal was ruled out for offside. Replays showed Igor Matanovic had made a slight touch to the cross before it reached Mario Pasalic, who was in an offside position prior to Gvardiol’s finish.
Ronaldo reaches World Cup knockout milestone
Portugal controlled much of the first half but fell behind eight minutes into the second period when Ivan Perisic fired into the bottom corner after Ruben Dias failed to clear a cross.
Croatia almost doubled their advantage moments later through substitute Matanovic, but the goal was disallowed for offside against Nikola Vlasic.
Portugal responded with renewed attacking intent as Leao struck the crossbar with a curling effort, while Ronaldo had a chipped finish ruled out for a marginal offside.
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The Portugal captain eventually equalised from the penalty spot after VAR identified a foul on Renato Veiga during a corner, giving Ronaldo his first goal in the knockout stages of the World Cup.
Croatia miss chances before Ramos strikes
Croatia continued to threaten after the equaliser.
Mateo Kovacic forced Diogo Costa into two saves following the hydration break, while Matanovic was denied in a one-on-one situation.
Petar Sucic also found the net after running onto a through ball from Kovacic, but the offside flag was raised again.
Ronaldo was substituted in the 81st minute, before Veiga and Pasalic both missed headed opportunities at opposite ends.
With extra time looming, Ramos produced the decisive moment, rising above two defenders to convert Leao’s cross and send Portugal through.
Spain await Portugal
Portugal will now face reigning European champions Spain in the World Cup last 16.
The match is scheduled for Monday, 6 July, at Dallas Stadium in Texas, with kick-off at 20:00 BST.
