Portugal secured a 2-1 victory against Croatia in the 2026 World Cup, with late goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonçalo Ramos. The team now advances to the round of 16 to face Spain in Dallas on Monday, July 6. Head coach Roberto Martínez noted tactical adjustments, while players emphasized their focus on the upcoming match.
Portugal defeats Croatia, advances to face Spain

Context & Explainers
Roberto Martínez is the current head coach of the Portugal national football team, a position he has held since January 2023. A Spanish professional football manager, he previously led the national teams of Belgium and several English club sides including Everton and Wigan Athletic.
Cristiano Ronaldo is a professional footballer and captain of the Portugal national team. He is widely recognized as one of the most successful players in the history of the sport, having won five Ballon d'Or awards and numerous league titles across Europe.
Gonçalo Ramos is a professional footballer who plays as a forward for the Portugal national team and the French club Paris Saint-Germain. He gained international attention for his performance during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he scored a hat-trick in his first start for the national squad.
6 sources
- Portugal FIFA Ranking: What Is Their Position Before Facing Croatia at the World Cup Round of 32?Athlon Sports ·
- Ramos' early hours provide lessons in efficiency. VAR was needed to calm the nerves and secure a spot in the round of 16dn.pt ·
- Ramos says he is used to scoring in the final minutes, Ronaldo downplays farewell guarantees given by his sisterdn.pt ·
- Martínez committed another crime and almost failed. If you need goals, call Ramos (Portugal player ratings)cnnportugal.iol.pt ·
- Roberto Martínez's players did not deserve to winobservador.pt ·
- Beating Croatia 2-1, Portugal must prepare to face Spain if they want to continue in the 2026 World CupFunchal Notícias ·




