Portugal beats Croatia 2-1 in dramatic World Cup clash with VAR controversy, Ronaldo makes history
Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in a FIFA World Cup knockout match, advancing to face Spain in the Round of 16. Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first-ever World Cup knockout-stage goal from the penalty spot in the 68th minute after VAR awarded a penalty for a foul by Nikola Vlašić on Renato Veiga. Gonçalo Ramos netted the winner in the 94th minute, powering home Rafael Leão's cross.
Croatia had taken a 53rd-minute lead through Ivan Perišić, but Portugal responded strongly after falling behind. The match featured multiple VAR controversies, including a disallowed Croatia goal in the 103rd minute for offside involving Mario Pašalić, which sparked furious protests from Croatian players and fans.
Portugal dominated early chances with Ronaldo, Pedro Neto, and Rafael Leão threatening before Croatia weathered the storm and took the lead through midfield control from Luka Modrić and Mateo Kovačić. Coach Roberto Martínez substituted Ronaldo in the 81st minute as Portugal pushed for a winner.
Reflecting on the victory, Ronaldo said: 'It was a difficult match, but we believed until the end.' The win keeps Ronaldo's World Cup dream alive as he adds another chapter to his remarkable international career.