Ramos nets stoppage-time header as Portugal defeat Croatia 2-1 to reach World Cup last 16

(Photo Credit: France 24)

Portugal booked a place in the FIFA World Cup round of 16 with a tense 2-1 victory over Croatia.

Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up from the penalty spot to give the Portuguese the lead, registering his first goal in a World Cup knockout match. Video review had confirmed a foul during an earlier corner kick.

Ivan Perišić drew Croatia level early in the second half, and the contest turned into a see-saw battle. Both sides had strikes disallowed and efforts cleared off the goal line during a frantic spell.

Deep into stoppage time, Joško Gvardiol looked to have forced a draw when he bundled the ball home. However, VAR overturned the goal for offside after a tight buildup involving Igor Matanović and Mario Pašalić.

With extra time appearing likely, Rafael Leão swung in a sharp cross and Ramos climbed above the defence to head home in the 94th minute.

The win sends Portugal into a last-16 clash with Spain on Monday, July 6, in Dallas.