Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed what he told long-time teammate Luka Modrić after Portugal’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Portugal came from behind to eliminate the 2018 World Cup runners-up and book their place in the Round of 16.
Ivan Perišić gave Croatia the lead in the 53rd minute before Ronaldo restored parity from the penalty spot 15 minutes later, scoring his first-ever goal in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup.
Substitute Gonçalo Ramos completed Portugal’s comeback with a towering header in stoppage time to seal victory for Roberto Martínez’s side.
Croatia thought they had forced extra time when Joško Gvardiol found the net in the 103rd minute, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
After the final whistle, Ronaldo was seen sharing an emotional moment with Modrić, his former teammate at Real Madrid CF.
Speaking afterwards, the Portugal skipper said he congratulated the Croatian midfielder for continuing to perform at the highest level despite his advancing age.
“I played many years with Modrić. It’s great to see him still playing at the top level,” Ronaldo was quoted as saying.
“I told him: ‘Congrats, Luka. Good luck for the future of your career.'”
Ronaldo and Modrić enjoyed immense success together during their time at Real Madrid, winning multiple major trophies, including four UEFA Champions League titles, and remain two of the most decorated footballers of their generation.
Portugal will now shift attention to their Round of 16 fixture as they continue their quest for a first FIFA World Cup title, while Croatia bow out after another spirited campaign.
