Foreign News
Ronaldo and Ramos score as Portugal beat Croatia 2-1 to enter World Cup last 16
Portugal have defeated Croatia 2-1 to advance in World Cup after wild final minutes that included disallowed goal.
They will now face Spain in the next round at Dallas Stadium.
Portugal had more possession and better chances in the first half on Thursday, but Croatia remained a threat with their trademark physicality and slick passing combinations. As the contest progressed in Toronto, both sides had reasons to be confident.
As the half wore on, Portugal’s dominance in possession and territorial control pinned Croatia deeper into their own half. However, whenever the Croatians managed to break, they looked dangerous on the counter and showed they were still very much in the game.
By halftime, Portugal had enjoyed the majority of possession and produced the clearer openings, but Croatia’s resilience kept the score level. The 2018 finalists had weathered the pressure and looked ready to continue the battle after the break.
Croatia struck first in the 53rd minute when veteran Ivan Perisic brought the ball down at the far post and fired home to put his side in front. It was a purposeful start to the second half from the Croatians, who emerged looking determined to seize control of the match.
Portugal responded quickly.
After seeing one opportunity ruled out for offside, Cristiano Ronaldo finally got his chance from the penalty spot in the 68th minute and made no mistake, scoring his first World Cup knockout-stage goal to bring Portugal level.
