Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first-ever goal in a FIFA World Cup knockout match as Portugal came from behind to defeat Croatia 2-1 in a thrilling encounter.
Substitute Gonçalo Ramos netted a dramatic stoppage-time winner to send Roberto Martinez’s side into the round of 16 in a chaotic game.
The victory sets up a blockbuster last-16 clash against European champions Spain on Monday after Portugal survived a spirited Croatian challenge in one of the tournament’s most entertaining matches.
Portugal dominated possession and created the better chances in the opening half but were unable to break down a disciplined Croatian defence.
Croatia, however, emerged stronger after the break and took the lead in the 53rd minute when Ivan Perišić capitalised on a poor clearance by Rúben Dias to fire a powerful shot beyond Diogo Costa.
The Croatians almost doubled their advantage moments later through substitute Igor Matanović, but the goal was ruled out for offside after Nikola Vlašić was adjudged to have been in an offside position during the build-up.
Portugal responded positively, with Rafael Leão striking the crossbar before Ronaldo had a well-taken finish ruled out for a marginal offside.
The equaliser eventually came after a VAR review spotted a foul on Renato Veiga during a corner kick.
Ronaldo calmly converted the resulting penalty, becoming the oldest player to start a World Cup knockout match and finally opening his scoring account in the knockout stages of the competition.
Croatia continued to threaten as Mateo Kovačić forced Costa into two excellent saves, while Matanović was denied in a one-on-one situation.
Petar Sučić also found the net after racing onto Kovačić’s through ball, but the assistant referee’s flag once again denied Croatia.
Ronaldo was substituted in the 81st minute and appeared visibly frustrated by the decision, but Portugal found the decisive breakthrough in the fourth minute of stoppage time.
Leão delivered a superb cross into the penalty area and Gonçalo Ramos rose above two defenders to power a header past the Croatian goalkeeper and spark jubilant celebrations.
Croatia thought they had rescued the match deep into added time when Joško Gvardiol bundled the ball into the net, but a lengthy VAR review ruled out the goal for offside after Igor Matanović was deemed to have made the slightest touch before the ball reached Mario Pašalić, who was in an offside position.
The defeat brought an end to Croatia’s World Cup campaign and is expected to mark the final appearance of veteran midfielder Luka Modrić on football’s biggest stage.
The 40-year-old produced another composed display but was unable to inspire his side to another famous comeback.
Portugal’s victory was also an emotional one. Following the final whistle, Ronaldo honoured former Portugal forward Diogo Jota, whose first death anniversary falls this week, by wearing his late teammate’s jersey as he led the players in celebrating with the travelling supporters.
Portugal will now take on Spain in a highly anticipated Iberian showdown for a place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
(The Whistler)
