Ronaldo, Ramos Rally Portugal for World Cup Comeback
Photo: REUTERS
Goncalo Ramos ignited a Portuguese celebration in Toronto after his 94th-minute header secured a 2-1 comeback victory over Croatia at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The dramatic triumph sends Roberto Martinez’s squad to Dallas for a high-stakes clash against Spain on 6 July.
After a scoreless first half highlighted by Bruno Fernandes’ early missed chances, Croatia broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute. Josip Stanisic delivered a precise cross that Ivan Perisic finished at the far post.
Croatia’s momentum stalled shortly after when VAR disallowed an Igor Matanovic strike for offside.
The pendulum swung back in the 68th minute. A VAR review confirmed that Nikola Vlasic fouled Renato Veiga in the box, resulting in a penalty. Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up and coolly slotted his 11th career World Cup goal to equalize.
Portugal clinched the win in the dying moments when a tantalizing cross from Rafael Leao found the rising Ramos. One final scare followed as Josko Gvardiol tapped in a late effort, but VAR ruled Mario Pasalic offside, preserving the victory.
Portugal’s resilience proved decisive in this tug-of-war battle.
