Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup hopes live on, but Spain demand more than a penalty after Portugal survive Croatia scare

Cristiano Ronaldo keeps Portugal alive, but Spain present a far tougher test

Cristiano Ronaldo's pursuit of the one major trophy missing from his glittering career remains alive after Portugal survived a thrilling Croatia challenge to reach the FIFA World Cup Round of 16. Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic knockout clash, setting up an all-Iberian showdown against Spain in what promises to be one of the tournament's marquee fixtures.

Portugal's victory was anything but straightforward. Croatia stunned Roberto Martinez's men by taking the lead early in the second half before Ronaldo restored parity from the penalty spot in the 68th minute. The 41-year-old calmly converted his spot-kick to register his first-ever goal in the knockout stages of a FIFA World Cup, becoming the oldest player to score in a men's World Cup knockout match.

With extra time looming, substitute Goncalo Ramos emerged as Portugal's hero, heading home the winning goal deep into stoppage time to send the Portuguese supporters into celebration. Croatia, however, believed they had forced extra time when they found the net moments later, only for VAR to rule out the equaliser for offside after semi-automated technology detected a decisive touch in the build-up. The decision sparked angry protests from Croatian players and fans, with debris briefly thrown onto the pitch.

Despite advancing, Portugal's performance exposed several concerns ahead of their meeting with Spain. Ronaldo's penalty showcased his composure, but Portugal struggled to consistently break down Croatia's disciplined defence and were vulnerable whenever Croatia attacked in transition. Martinez's side also saw one of their own goals ruled out during a contest that featured multiple VAR interventions.

Spain, meanwhile, arrive in the last 16 in dominant form after comfortably dispatching Austria 3-0. Luis de la Fuente's side impressed with their fluid attacking football, midfield control and defensive solidity, reinforcing their status among the favourites to lift the trophy. Their clinical display means Portugal face a significantly tougher challenge than Croatia.

For Ronaldo, the Spain clash represents another defining chapter in an extraordinary international career. While his penalty proved decisive against Croatia, Portugal will require greater creativity, defensive discipline and attacking cohesion if they are to overcome one of the tournament's strongest teams.

The fixture also renews one of international football's fiercest rivalries. Spain have often frustrated Portugal in major tournaments, although Portugal have enjoyed success against their neighbours in recent years, including victory in the 2025 UEFA Nations League final. History, however, will matter little when the two European heavyweights meet with a place in the World Cup quarter-finals at stake.