Cristiano Ronaldo scored a penalty and wore Diogo Jota’s No. 21 jersey as Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 to advance to the last 16 of the FIFA World Cup. The victory, secured by a stoppage-time header from Gonçalo Ramos, sets up a knockout clash with Spain.
Ramos Decides Tight Contest
Portugal took the lead when Ronaldo converted from the spot, but Croatia dominated large periods of the match. The 2018 finalists were twice denied by the finest of margins, with two goals disallowed by computer sensor technology. Officials ruled that the ball had touched Igor Matanović’s head for one disallowed effort, though observers noted that neither the trajectory nor spin of the ball appeared to change significantly. Croatia also struck the post during a spirited rally.
With the match heading towards a draw, Ramos—described in reports as Milan’s new £60m striker—leaped to glance a header into the corner in added time. Ronaldo was substituted in the 81st minute.
Emotional Tribute
Ronaldo’s decision to wear Jota’s shirt number marked the first anniversary of the Liverpool forward’s death. “Because the situation of the day, it means a lot to us,” said Ronaldo. “Not only because we won the game but because of the way we did it.”
Germany Exit Prompts Nagelsmann Resignation
Elsewhere in the tournament, Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has resigned following his side’s World Cup exit against Paraguay. The German Football Association is reportedly in talks with Jürgen Klopp over the vacancy.
Nagelsmann initially insisted “I am not someone who runs away” immediately after the defeat on 30 June, but reversed his position by 3 July. “The decision was anything but easy for me … I am sorry and hurt from the bottom of my heart that we disappointed you,” he stated.
Portugal will face Spain in the last 16.