Portugal are through to the World Cup round of 16 after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in Toronto, with VAR playing a decisive role in sealing their passage to the knockout stages.

Roberto Martinez's side looked set for extra time in the 15th minute of added time when Josko Gvardiol steered the ball home from Mario Pasalic's cross, appearing to level the match and threaten Portugal's campaign.

Ronaldo's night of drama

The evening had already been a rollercoaster for Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates. Croatia seized control early in the second half through Ivan Perisic's opener, putting Portugal on the back foot.

Ronaldo had a goal ruled out for offside before earning — and converting — a penalty after Nikola Vlasic fouled Renato Veiga inside the area. That equaliser restored parity and steadied Portugal's nerves.

Goncalo Ramos then delivered what seemed to be the decisive blow, tucking away a 94th-minute winner to send Portugal into the last 16. Ronaldo had been substituted by that point, though he was later awarded Player of the Match.

VAR denies Croatia a lifeline

Gvardiol's apparent late leveller sent Croatia's supporters into euphoria — but Premier League referee Jarred Gillett urged match official Espen Eskas to consult the pitchside VAR monitor.

The review revealed that Pasalic had received the ball from a slight flick off teammate Igor Matanovic's head, placing him in an offside position. The goal was disallowed, and Portugal's place in the next round was confirmed.

Furious Croatia fans responded by hurling plastic bottles onto the pitch, causing a brief delay before play resumed. There was no way back for Croatia, whose World Cup journey ended in controversy.

Ronaldo addresses retirement reports

After the match, Ronaldo directly refuted claims — attributed to his sister Katia Aveiro — that he intends to retire from international football following this tournament. The 2026 World Cup, it seems, has not yet heard the last of him.

Portugal now face Spain on 6 July in Arlington in a mouth-watering Iberian derby for a place in the quarter-finals.