Cristiano Ronaldo marked another milestone in his illustrious career as Portugal came from behind to beat Croatia 2-1 and book their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
The veteran forward scored his first-ever World Cup knockout-stage goal before substitute Gonçalo Ramos struck a dramatic stoppage-time winner to send Portugal through after an entertaining contest in Toronto.
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Croatia looked on course for victory when Ivan Perišić broke the deadlock early in the second half, calmly slotting the ball past goalkeeper Diogo Costa after a swift attacking move.
Portugal thought they had found an immediate response through Ronaldo, but his effort was ruled out for offside. The equaliser eventually arrived from the penalty spot after Renato Veiga was brought down inside the box, with the referee awarding the spot-kick following a VAR review. Ronaldo made no mistake, confidently sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.
The match remained evenly poised as Croatia continued to threaten. Mateo Kovačić forced a brilliant save from Costa, while Petar Sučić had a goal ruled out for offside before Mario Pašalić narrowly missed the target with a late header.
Just as extra time appeared inevitable, Rafael Leão delivered an inviting cross for substitute Gonçalo Ramos, who headed home in stoppage time to complete Portugal’s comeback.
Croatia’s hopes of forcing extra time were dashed moments later when Joško Gvardiol’s stoppage-time effort was ruled out for offside after a VAR check.
Portugal will now face neighbours Spain in a blockbuster Round of 16 clash, with a place in the World Cup quarter-finals at stake.
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