Ronaldo Scores First World Cup Knockout Goal as Portugal Edge Croatia in Toronto Thriller
Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first-ever World Cup knockout goal as Portugal survived a late scare to defeat Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic Round of 32 clash that saw four goals ruled out for offside .
Ronaldo Scores First World Cup Knockout Goal as Portugal Edge Croatia in Toronto Thriller
In a match that will be remembered for its incredible drama, Portugal and Croatia produced a thrilling contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle. The game was historic even before kickoff, as it marked the first time two outfield players aged over 40—Cristiano Ronaldo (41 years and 147 days) and Luka Modric (40 years and 296 days), had faced each other in a World Cup match.
Portugal dominated the first half, with Bruno Fernandes denied twice by Dominik Livakovic and desperate Croatian defending in the 4th minute. Croatia emerged from the break with renewed purpose and took the lead in the 53rd minute when Ivan Perisic finished at the back post after Josip Stanisic's cross evaded the Portuguese defense.
Three minutes later, Croatia thought they had doubled their lead, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Portugal responded with relentless pressure, with Rafael Leao striking the crossbar and Ronaldo having a goal ruled out for a marginal offside call. Ronaldo's frustration didn't last long. In the 68th minute, Nikola Vlasic inexplicably wrestled Renato Veiga to the ground in the penalty area, and after a VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty.
Ronaldo stepped up and fired the ball down the middle for his first-ever World Cup knockout goal. Portugal survived several scares, with Mateo Kovacic hitting the post and forcing a stunning save from Diogo Costa, who also used his chest to block a close-range effort from Igor Matanovic.
The drama reached its peak in stoppage time when substitute Goncalo Ramos rose highest to head home Rafael Leao's cross in the 94th minute, giving Portugal a dramatic lead. There was still time for more controversy as Croatia thought they had equalized when Ruben Neves scored an own goal with almost the last kick, but after a lengthy VAR check, it was ruled out for offside.
After the final whistle, there was an emotional scene as players said goodbye to Luka Modric in what was likely his last World Cup appearance. Portugal will now face Spain in the Round of 16 on July 6 in Arlington, Texas.
Source: TrendyBeatz
