Goncalo Ramos: Late Winner Sends Portugal Into FIFA World Cup Last 16
Substitute scores dramatic stoppage-time header as Portugal beats Croatia 2-1 to set up a last-16 clash with Spain.
Goncalo Ramos celebrates after scoring Portugal's stoppage-time winner against Croatia.
Goncalo Ramos fired Portugal into the FIFA World Cup last 16 with a dramatic stoppage-time winner in a thrilling 2-1 victory over Croatia in Toronto on Thursday. The win sets up a blockbuster Round of 16 clash with **Spain>.
Croatia created several clear chances and took the lead in the 53rd minute through Ivan Periši?. He calmly finished after breaking through Portugal’s defence.
Portugal responded strongly. Cristiano Ronaldo thought he had equalised moments later, but the assistant referee ruled his effort offside.
The breakthrough came after a VAR review awarded Portugal a penalty. Ronaldo converted from the spot in the 68th minute, scoring his first goal in a FIFA World Cup knockout match.
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Croatia continued to threaten and came close to restoring their lead several times. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa produced important saves to keep Portugal level.
In the fourth minute of added time, Rafael Leão delivered an excellent cross into the penalty area. Ramos rose above the defence and headed home the winning goal.
Croatia believed they had forced extra time in the closing seconds when Joško Gvardiol found the net. However, VAR ruled the goal out for offside, ending Croatia’s World Cup campaign.
Portugal will now face Spain in the Round of 16 on Monday after securing one of the tournament’s most dramatic victories.
