Ronaldo penalty, Ramos strike send Portugal into World Cup Round of 16
Portugal secured a comeback 2-1 victory over Croatia to qualify for the Round of 16 at the World Cup. The match, played at the Toronto Stadium, saw Croatia take the lead through Ivan Perisic in the 52nd minute before Portugal responded with two goals in quick succession.
Croatia struck first when Perisic capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home. Portugal manager Roberto Martinez then made several substitutions to increase attacking pressure. The equaliser came from a penalty converted by Cristiano Ronaldo in the 67th minute, after a VAR review confirmed a handball in the box. Ronaldo's spot-kick was placed low and straight down the middle, beating the goalkeeper. The goal was his 11th in World Cup competitions.
Substitute Goncalo Ramos then scored the winner in the 78th minute, finishing from close range after a cross from the left flank. Ramos, who had come on minutes earlier, continued his reputation as a decisive substitute. The win ensured Portugal finished top of their group and advanced to the knockout stage.
Ronaldo earlier had a goal disallowed for offside before the penalty. The victory extends Portugal's unbeaten run in the group stage and sets up a last-16 clash against an opponent yet to be determined.
