03 July,2026 02:44 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Cristiano Ronaldo (Pic: X/@FIFAWorldCup)
In the FIFA World Cup 2026 match against Croatia, Portugal secured a dramatic victory by 2-1 at the BC Place Vancouver in Canada.
During the match, Portugal's superstar Cristiano Ronaldo scored a crucial goal in the 68th minute through a penalty.
Following the win, he dismissed the speculation over his retirement from the sport by saying that he doesn't make any "reckless" decisions.
"I don't make reckless decisions. I will decide after the tournament, not now," said the Madeira-born footballer.
With the help of the penalty, Ronaldo also scripted history by becoming the oldest goalscorer in a World Cup's knockout match. He achieved the feat at the age of 41 years and 147 days.
Additionally, this was also Ronaldo's first-ever goal in a knockout match, who is featuring in his sixth FIFA World Cup.
Later, Goncalo Ramos showcased a perfect header in the fourth minute of stoppage time to help Portugal cruise to a dominant victory. With this, Roberto Martinez's side has advanced to the round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Croatia's two goals were ruled out for offside, including a goal-scoring equaliser in stoppage time.
Ronaldo also dedicated the win to his late teammate Diogo Jota. The win came on Jota's first death anniversary. Before posing for the photo, Ronaldo was emotional when the squad paid homage to their late teammate.
Throughout the tournament, the Portuguese squad has carried Jota's memory, with manager Roberto Martinez naming him an honorary member of the World Cup squad and several players dedicating the campaign to him.
In the previous year, Jota, along with his brother Andre Silva, lost their lives in a car crash on July 3. Their Lamborghini left the road and caught fire.
Portuguese men will now lock horns with Spain in the round of 16. The clash between Portugal and Spain is scheduled to be played on July 7 at the Dallas Stadium in Texas. The title clash of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be played on July 20 at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford.
(With ANI Inputs)
