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Portugal Edge Croatia in FIFA World Cup Thriller (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: Cristiano Ronaldo etched another chapter in his illustrious career by scoring his first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout-stage goal as Portugal fought back to level against Croatia in their Round of 32 clash in Toronto on Thursday.
The 41-year-old converted a penalty in the 68th minute, ending a long wait for a goal in the World Cup knockout rounds after going eight such matches without scoring or assisting across five previous editions. The strike also took his World Cup tally to 11 goals across six tournaments.
Portugal found themselves trailing early in the second half after Croatia veteran Ivan Perisic fired home from close range. Portugal responded strongly, and Ronaldo calmly slotted home from the penalty spot after Renato Veiga was fouled inside the box during a corner.
Just minutes earlier, Ronaldo had a potential equaliser ruled out for offside before finally finding the net from the spot.
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez made several attacking changes in search of an equaliser, and Ronaldo was eventually substituted in the 81st minute, marking the first time he has been taken off during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The goal was Ronaldo's third of the tournament, following his brace against Uzbekistan in the group stage.
With the strike, Ronaldo extended his international record to 146 goals in 232 appearances for Portugal. He also became the first men's footballer to score 25 combined goals across the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship, adding yet another milestone to his legendary career.
