Portugal beat Croatia 2–1 after a dramatic stoppage-time winner in Toronto.
Toronto: Substitute Gonçalo Ramos headed Portugal into the World Cup last 16 with a dramatic stoppage-time winner in a gripping 2–1 victory over Croatia on Thursday.
Ramos connected with a superb cross from Rafael Leão in the fourth minute of added time, breaking Croatian hearts after they had created most of the chances in the sweltering evening heat.
Croatia thought they had equalised moments later, but Joško Gvardiol’s goal was ruled out for offside, leaving the Croatians stunned as Portugal celebrated.
Ronaldo scores from the spot
Cristiano Ronaldo played a key role in Portugal’s victory, converting a penalty to cancel out Ivan Perišić’s opener.
The goal marked Ronaldo’s first-ever World Cup knockout goal, adding another milestone to his storied international career as Portugal booked a last-16 meeting with Spain in Dallas on Monday.
Croatia struck first through Ivan Perišić, who shocked Portugal by slotting the ball beneath goalkeeper Diogo Costa in the 53rd minute.
Cristiano Ronaldo thought he had quickly restored parity after controlling a long pass and finishing clinically, but his effort was ruled out for offside.
VAR gives Portugal a lifeline
Portugal were awarded a penalty after Renato Veiga was pulled back by Croatia’s Nikola Vlašić inside the box.
Following a VAR review, the referee pointed to the spot, and Ronaldo calmly converted, striking the ball down the middle before celebrating with clenched fists.
Croatia spurned late chances as the match continued at a breathless pace throughout.
Mateo Kovačić had a low drive tipped onto the post by Diogo Costa, while Petar Sučić found the net only for the assistant referee’s flag to rule it out for offside.
Ronaldo was substituted in the 81st minute for Rúben Neves, but Croatia continued to apply pressure.
Mario Pašalić came agonisingly close to a winner, sending a far-post header narrowly wide.
Portugal survived the late drama just as extra time seemed inevitable, when Rafael Leão delivered a pinpoint cross and Gonçalo Ramos powered home a decisive header.
Portugal advanced, while Croatia were left to rue how the match slipped away in the dying moments.
