Cristiano Ronaldo made history again as Portugal edged Croatia 2-1 in the round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday, July 2, 2026, securing a spot in the round of 16.
The 41-year-old captain started the match and converted a crucial penalty kick, helping his team advance while dedicating a message to fans in South America.
"It's always 100% special when I speak to Brazil, not only because I have family there.
I really like the Brazilian people because I have always received a lot of affection and support from Brazilians throughout my career.
I take the opportunity to send a kiss to everyone. Thank you, it's a pleasure to be here," Ronaldo said in a post-match interview with Cazé TV.
The match was filled with drama for the veteran forward, who had a goal disallowed by a tight VAR review before scoring the penalty.
"I had a feeling there would be a penalty. I was prepared for it, because I felt it was going to happen.
It's hard, I won't deny it, the heartbeat is very fast, but I tried to trust what I feel as my instinct, and trust that I would score.
That's what I always do.
And it turned out well, it was an important emotional moment for all of us, after scoring, we felt we could win the game...
and I am very happy, obviously," Ronaldo explained.
With this appearance, Ronaldo reached 26 World Cup matches, surpassing German legends Lothar Matthäus and Miroslav Klose to become the second-highest appearance maker in tournament history, behind only Lionel Messi's 29 games.
His penalty also made him the oldest goalscorer in a World Cup knockout fixture.
Portugal's victory was sealed in stoppage time by substitute Gonçalo Ramos, who headed home a cross from Rafael Leão after Ivan Perišić had opened the scoring for Croatia.
The final whistle also marked the end of international tournament play for Croatian midfielder Luka Modrić.
Portugal will now face Spain in the round of 16 on Monday, July 6, 2026.
