By Zoila Palma: Portugal is through to the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia that was decided in stoppage time. Croatia took the lead early in the second half through Ivan Perisic, but Portugal fought back as Cristiano Ronaldo converted a penalty in the 68th minute to level the match.
Goncalo Ramos then headed home the winning goal deep into stoppage time, while Croatia’s late equalizer was ruled out for offside following a VAR review, Yahoo reports.
The victory sets up a highly anticipated Round of 16 showdown against neighboring rivals Spain. Spain advanced comfortably after defeating Austria 3-0, setting the stage for one of the tournament’s marquee knockout matches as two European heavyweights battle for a place in the quarterfinals.
Ahead of the encounter, Ronaldo expressed confidence in Portugal’s chances while acknowledging the quality of the opposition. “We will be READY, we know them well. Spain are among favorites to win. It is a very balanced match, and we will see what happens,” Ronaldo said after Portugal’s victory.
Portugal enters the match with confidence after defeating Spain in the 2025 UEFA Nations League final.
The post International News: Ronaldo confident ahead of Portugal’s World Cup clash with Spain appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: Portugal is through to the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia that was decided in stoppage time. Croatia took the lead early in the second half through Ivan Perisic, but Portugal fought back as Cristiano Ronaldo converted a penalty in the 68th minute to level
The post International News: Ronaldo confident ahead of Portugal’s World Cup clash with Spain appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
