Portugal advanced to the World Cup round of 16 after a 2-1 victory over Croatia in a dramatic match decided by a late Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decision. Croatia thought they had equalized in the 103rd minute when Josko Gvardiol scored, but VAR ruled the goal offside after determining the ball had touched Igor Matanovic before reaching Gvardiol. The decision sparked outrage among Croatian players and fans, who threw debris onto the field in protest.
Croatia took an early lead through Ivan Perisic in the 53rd minute, but Portugal equalized through a Cristiano Ronaldo penalty in the 68th minute after a VAR review for a foul in the box. Goncalo Ramos then scored the winning goal in the 94th minute, sealing Portugal's victory. Ronaldo, 41, became the oldest player to score in a World Cup knockout match.
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic criticized the officiating, calling it "very bad refereeing," but acknowledged his team's shortcomings. "We could have won this earlier," he said. Portugal coach Roberto Martinez defended the VAR decision, stating it was "a clear moment" and that technology helps uphold fairness.
The loss marks the end of an era for Croatia, as 40-year-old captain Luka Modric is likely to have played his final World Cup. Dalic, however, expressed optimism about the team's future, citing the emergence of young players. Ronaldo, meanwhile, will continue his World Cup journey, having set a record as the oldest player to score in a knockout stage.
The match was marked by intense drama, including a controversial offside call, a last-minute winner, and the emotional farewell for two football legends. Portugal will now face Spain in the next round.