Portugal vs. Croatia World Cup Showdown: Ronaldo and Modrić Face Off in Toronto
The 2026 World Cup round of 16 match between Portugal and Croatia in Toronto pits longtime friends and former Real Madrid teammates Cristiano Ronaldo (41) and Luka Modrić (40) against each other in what is likely their final World Cup appearance. Portugal holds a historical edge with 7 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss against Croatia, and Modrić has never beaten Ronaldo in 10 previous encounters. The winner advances to face Spain in the quarterfinals.
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Real Madrid's Instagram Posts Photo of Ronaldo and Modric Embracing as 'Legends' After Portugal-Croatia World Cup Match
In a World Cup Round of 16 match on July 3rd, Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1. Following the game, Real Madrid's official Instagram account shared a photo of teammates Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric embracing, captioning it 'Legends.' The post highlights the bond between the two players, both of whom are current or former Real Madrid stars. The news was reported by Hupu Football and sourced from Instagram, with the match result and the social media tribute being the core events.
虎扑 - 足球Cristiano Ronaldo Shows Compassion by Consoling Luka Modric After VAR Controversy in World Cup Clash
In a dramatic World Cup last-32 match on July 3, 2026, Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in Toronto, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring a penalty and Goncalo Ramos netting a 94th-minute winner. Croatia's Josko Gvardiol had a late equalizer controversially disallowed by VAR, leaving Croatian captain Luka Modric devastated, likely in his final World Cup appearance. Ronaldo, 41, embraced and consoled his former Real Madrid teammate Modric, 40, offering warm words. In a post-match interview, Ronaldo revealed he told Modric: 'Congratulations for everything. I would love to see you again and all the best for the next years of your career.' Ronaldo praised Modric as a 'legend of football.' Portugal advances to face Spain in the round of 16.
Mirror - FootballModric: Not time to discuss my future, you will know soon
After Croatia's 2-1 loss to Portugal in the World Cup round of 16, captain Luka Modric addressed his future with the national team. Following Croatia's elimination in the round of 32, the 40-year-old midfielder stated it was not yet the right moment to discuss his plans, but promised that his decision would be revealed soon. Modric, who remains a starter in a top five European league, continues to generate speculation about his international career. The match saw Portugal come from behind to secure victory.
虎扑 - 足球2026 World Cup: Cristiano Ronaldo Pays Tribute to Luka Modric After Portugal Defeats Croatia
Portugal secured a 2-1 victory over Croatia in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup, earning a spot in the Round of 16 against Spain. Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored in the match, paid tribute to Croatian midfielder Luka Modric after the game. The article highlights the emotional moment between the two football legends, with Ronaldo acknowledging Modric's career and sportsmanship. The match was described as thrilling, setting up a highly anticipated clash between Portugal and Spain in the next round.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertCristiano Ronaldo Praises Luka Modric After Portugal Beats Croatia in World Cup Round of 16
On July 3rd, in the World Cup Round of 16, Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in a comeback victory. After the match, Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo commented on Croatia midfielder Luka Modric, his former Real Madrid teammate. Ronaldo expressed happiness that Modric continues to perform at a top level and wished him all the best in his future career. The article, sourced from Bola and published by Hupu Soccer, highlights the mutual respect between the two football legends.
虎扑 - 足球Ronaldo keeps World Cup dream alive, eliminates Croatia and ends Modrić's tournament career
Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41 years old, scored a penalty to lead Portugal to a 2-1 victory over Croatia in the World Cup Round of 32 match in Toronto, ending the World Cup career of his former Real Madrid teammate Luka Modrić. Gonçalo Ramos added a goal in the 94th minute for Portugal, while Ivan Perišić had given Croatia the lead in the 53rd minute. Croatia thought they had equalized in the 13th minute of stoppage time, but the goal was disallowed for offside after a video review. The victory was also emotional as it fell on the first anniversary of Diogo Jota's death. Ronaldo and Portugal advance to face European champions Spain in the Round of 16. Modrić, 40, was playing in his fifth World Cup and likely his final international tournament.
Nachrichten - WELTPortugal beats Croatia in dramatic 2026 World Cup round of 16 after controversial disallowed goal
Portugal defeated Croatia in the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, advancing to the quarterfinals after a controversial finish. Croatia had a goal disallowed in the 102nd minute of stoppage time, sparking major controversy and marking what is expected to be the end of Luka Modric's international career. Earlier in the match, Ivan Perisic scored for Croatia, but Portugal rallied. Cristiano Ronaldo was substituted with 10 minutes remaining, and Goncalo Ramos scored to complete the comeback. The match ended without extra time due to the disallowed goal, drawing emotional reactions from Modric, who had a notable gesture reminiscent of his Real Madrid legacy.
Fútbol en AS.comRonaldo and Modric Share Heartfelt Embrace After Portugal Defeats Croatia in World Cup Round of 16
In a World Cup Round of 16 match on July 3rd, Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1. After the final whistle, 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo and 40-year-old Luka Modric, former Real Madrid teammates, shared a warm embrace. The article notes that this is likely the last time the two legends will face each other on the international stage, or possibly in their entire careers. The moment was widely shared and commented on by fans, highlighting the blend of rivalry and mutual respect in football. The report originates from Hupu, a Chinese sports community, and has garnered significant reader engagement.
虎扑 - 足球Croatia's last-minute heartbreak ends Luka Modric's storied World Cup career
Croatia's World Cup journey ended in heartbreaking fashion as a last-gasp equalizer by Josko Gvardiol was ruled offside, leading to a 2-1 loss to Portugal in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup. The defeat likely marks the end of legendary midfielder Luka Modric's World Cup career at age 40. Modric, who led Croatia to second and third-place finishes in previous tournaments, faced off against his former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, also 41, in what was likely the final World Cup appearance for both players. Modric spent the 2025-26 season playing for AC Milan alongside USMNT star Christian Pulisic.
Yardbarker: SoccerThe 'Last Dance' of Two Legends: Cristiano Ronaldo and Modric's Embrace Before Portugal-Croatia
On July 3, 2026, former Real Madrid teammates Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric shared a warm embrace before the start of a World Cup round of 16 match between Portugal and Croatia. The article, published by Record Portugal, notes that this encounter very likely marks their last duel for their respective national teams, signaling the end of an era for both legendary players. The match is part of the 2026 World Cup knockout stage, and the emotional moment was captured by AP and Getty Images photographers.
RecordModric and Perisic Set World Cup Record for Most Matches Played Together
In the Round of 16 match of the World Cup between Portugal and Croatia, Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic started together, setting a historic record for the most matches played together by a duo in World Cup history. According to statistics, they have played together in 21 World Cup matches, surpassing the previous record of 20 held by Poland's Lato and Zmuda. Other notable duos on the list include Germany's Lahm and Schweinsteiger with 19 matches, as well as Croatian pairs Modric-Kovacic and Perisic-Kovacic, each with 19 matches. The news was reported by Hupu on July 3, highlighting the longevity and consistency of the Croatian stars in international tournaments.
虎扑 - 足球Ronaldo and Modric World Cup Appearance Rates Compared Ahead of Portugal vs Croatia Match
On July 3rd, during the World Cup Round of 16 match between Portugal and Croatia, both Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric started. The article highlights their historical World Cup participation rates: Portugal has played 39 World Cup matches, with Ronaldo featuring in 26 (67%). Croatia has played 34 World Cup matches, with Modric appearing in 23 (68%). The data underscores the longevity and importance of both players to their national teams. The match is a key knockout stage encounter, and the statistics provide context for their contributions. The source is Hupu Soccer, a Chinese sports community, citing X (formerly Twitter) as the original source.
虎扑 - 足球Ronaldo and Modric Become First Two Players with 200+ National Team Appearances to Face Each Other
During the 2022 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match between Portugal and Croatia, Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric both started the game. According to statistics, this match marked the first time in football history that two players with over 200 international appearances have competed on the same field. Ronaldo and Modric are both legendary figures in the sport, and this milestone highlights their enduring careers at the highest level of international football.
虎扑 - 足球Cristiano Ronaldo and Modric Set Record for Most Combined World Cup Appearances in a Single Match
In the World Cup Round of 16 match between Portugal and Croatia, Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric both started, marking their 26th and 23rd World Cup appearances respectively. Their combined total of 49 appearances set a new record for the most combined World Cup appearances by two players in a single match. The previous record of 46 was held by Lionel Messi and Hugo Lloris during the 2022 World Cup. The match, reported by Hupu News on July 3rd, highlights the longevity and significance of both veteran players in international football.
虎扑 - 足球Portugal vs Croatia World Cup Round of 16 Lineups: Leao Starts, Ronaldo Sets Age Record
For the 2026 World Cup round of 16 match between Portugal and Croatia, Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has made a key attacking change, starting Rafael Leao on the left wing over Joao Felix, who started the previous two group matches. Pedro Neto retains his place on the right, pushing Bernardo Silva to the bench. Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41 years old, becomes the oldest player to participate in a World Cup knockout match. The midfield trio consists of Bruno Fernandes, Joao Neves, and Vitinha, with Nuno Mendes at left back. Croatia, who switched from a 5-man to a 4-man defense after their opening loss to England, fields the same starting eleven that beat Ghana 2-1. Ivan Perisic starts at left back, with Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic in midfield. The match kicks off at 1 a.m. French time on Friday.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuPortugal vs Croatia World Cup Round of 32: Modric and Ronaldo Face Off
Portugal and Croatia, both advancing to the World Cup round of 32 as group runners-up, are set for a European duel. The match features veteran stars Luka Modric and Cristiano Ronaldo, with the winner progressing to the round of 16. A key moment involves Bruno Fernandes creating a chance that Renato Veiga headed over the goal.
kicker Fußball NewsPortugal v Croatia: World Cup 2026 Last 32 Live Blog
The Guardian's live blog covers the World Cup 2026 last-32 match between Portugal and Croatia, scheduled to kick off at 7pm EDT on July 2, 2026. The article highlights the matchup between veteran stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric, who made their international debuts in 2006. It notes that both players are part of an elite group of four men with at least 200 international caps. The blog is hosted by Beau Dure and includes links to player guides, bracketology, and the full tournament draw. The match is part of the knockout stage, with the winner advancing to the last 16.
Football | The GuardianWorld Cup Round of 32: Portugal vs. Croatia Features Last Match for Superstar Ronaldo or Modric
On Friday, three Round of 32 matches will take place at the 2026 World Cup. The most notable game is Portugal vs. Croatia, which will only be broadcast on MagentaTV, not on public television. This match features veteran stars Cristiano Ronaldo (41) and Luka Modric (40), former Real Madrid teammates who won four Champions League titles together. For one of them, this will be their last World Cup match. Portugal finished second in their group and are still searching for form, while Croatia have underperformed compared to their recent World Cup successes. The other matches are Switzerland vs. Algeria (broadcast on ZDF) and Australia vs. Egypt (also on ZDF). The Australia-Egypt match is historic as neither team has ever won a World Cup knockout round match.
Nachrichten - WELTPortugal vs. Croatia: Ronaldo and Modric Face Off in Possible Final International Match for One Legend
The 2026 World Cup Round of 16 match between Portugal and Croatia, scheduled for the night of July 2-3 (1 a.m. French time), is set to be the final international appearance for either Cristiano Ronaldo or Luka Modric. Ronaldo, 41, who began his international career in 2003 and won Euro 2016 with Portugal, has confirmed this tournament will be his last. Modric, 40, started his international career in 2006, led Croatia to the 2018 World Cup final, and won the Ballon d'Or in 2018, breaking the Messi-Ronaldo dominance. Both players were once teammates at Real Madrid. The match carries immense emotional weight as two aging legends face a high-stakes knockout clash, with Portuguese coach Roberto Martinez calling them 'icons of football' and Croatian coach Zlatko Dalic praising Modric's enduring quality.
Home Football - actualitésPortugal vs Croatia: 2026 World Cup Round of 16 Match Preview
This article previews the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 16 match between Portugal and Croatia, scheduled to take place at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada. Portugal, led by veteran Cristiano Ronaldo, finished second in Group K behind Colombia after draws with DR Congo and Colombia. Croatia, finalists in 2018 and third in 2022, placed second in Group L behind England. The match features two football legends, Ronaldo and Luka Modric, potentially playing their last World Cup game. The winner will face the victor of Spain vs Austria in the quarterfinals. The article notes ongoing debate in Portugal about Ronaldo's playing time, as he has started every match and scored a brace against Uzbekistan. The match kicks off at 1 AM French time (overnight Thursday to Friday) and can be followed live on RMC Sport. Norwegian referee Espen Eskås will officiate.
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