Portugal advanced to the World Cup last 16 after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in the round of 32, with the decisive moment coming from a controversial VAR offside call in stoppage time. Goncalo Ramos scored the winning goal in the 94th minute, while Cristiano Ronaldo equalized from the penalty spot earlier in the match. Croatia thought they had equalized in the 103rd minute, but a VAR review ruled Josko Gvardiol offside after the ball touched Igor Matanovic in the buildup, sparking outrage among Croatian fans and players.
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic criticized the refereeing, calling it "very bad," but accepted the loss without excuses. Meanwhile, Portugal coach Roberto Martinez defended his decision to substitute Ronaldo in the 81st minute, a move that drew mixed reactions. The win sets up a last-16 clash with Spain for Portugal.
The match was marked by high drama, including a penalty awarded to Portugal after a VAR review and multiple offside calls that shifted momentum. Croatia, runners-up in 2018 and third in 2022, exits the tournament, likely marking the end of Luka Modric’s World Cup career. Portugal, meanwhile, continues its campaign with a mix of veteran leadership and young talent.