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Portugal Edge Croatia in Extra Time to Advance at FIFA World Cup
World Cup 2026

Portugal Edge Croatia in Extra Time to Advance at FIFA World Cup

2 hours ago·1 min

Portugal booked their place in the next round of the FIFA World Cup after defeating Croatia following extra time in a tense Round of 32 clash at Toronto Stadium.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić — two of football's most decorated veterans — shared the pitch in what could prove to be a final World Cup appearance for both icons, adding an emotional weight to an already high-stakes encounter.

The match went beyond the regulation 90 minutes, with neither side able to settle the contest in normal time. Portugal ultimately prevailed through the additional period to secure their progression in the tournament.

Ronaldo, representing Portugal at what may be his last World Cup, was at the heart of his nation's push, while Modrić led Croatia's effort to extend their campaign. The two captains' rivalry gave the tie the feel of a generational farewell on the grandest stage in football.

Croatia, who have consistently punched above their weight on the world stage in recent tournaments, were unable to reproduce the magic that carried them to the final in 2018 and the semi-finals in 2022, as Portugal's quality and determination proved the difference.

Portugal now advance to face the next challenge in the FIFA World Cup, carrying the momentum of a hard-fought victory and the expectation of a nation hoping Ronaldo can carry them even further in the competition.

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