Ronaldo marked his first-ever goal in the knockout stages of the World Cup with a 68th-minute strike from the penalty spot.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Portugal captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, has disclosed what he discussed with former Real Madrid teammate, Luka Modrić, after his team came from behind to beat Croatia 2-1 in the round-of-32 fixture of the 2026 World Cup.
Roberto Martínez’s men ensured their passage into the tournament’s Round of 16 following the feat achieved at the Toronto Stadium on Friday.
After a goalless but entertaining first half, Ivan Perišić put the 2018 FIFA World Cup finalists ahead in the 53rd minute.
Ronaldo, however, levelled the scores for Portugal from the penalty spot in the 68th minute, marking his first-ever goal in the knockout stages of the World Cup.
Substitute Gonçalo Ramos then clinched the win for the Seleção with a remarkable header in the 94th minute.
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Zlatko Dalić’s men thought they had equalised to force extra time when Joško Gvardiol found the net in the 103rd minute, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
Ronaldo, who played a crucial part in the hard-earned victory for Portugal, was later seen talking to Modrić after the game.
Revealing their conversation, the 41-year-old Al-Nassr striker said he congratulated the Croatia midfielder for his longevity in football.
“I played many years with Modrić, it’s great to see him still playing at the top level.
“I told him: congrats Luka, good luck for the future of your career,” Ronaldo said, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano.
