Cristiano Ronaldo once again etched his name into football history after becoming the oldest player ever to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout match. The Portugal captain achieved the remarkable feat during his side's dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
At 41 years and 147 days, Ronaldo surpassed the previous record to add yet another milestone to his glittering career as Portugal booked a place in the Round of 16.
Also Read: Why was Croatia's 103rd-minute goal ruled out? FIFA provides official verdict
Ronaldo scripts history with landmark World Cup goal
Portugal found themselves trailing after Ivan Perisic gave Croatia the lead early in the second half, putting Roberto Martinez's side under pressure.
The breakthrough for Portugal came in the 68th minute when Croatia conceded a penalty after Nikola Vlasic handled the ball inside the penalty area. Ronaldo stepped up and calmly converted from the spot to level the scores.
The strike not only ended his long wait for a goal in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup but also made him the oldest player in football history to score in a World Cup knockout fixture, doing so at the age of 41 years and 147 days.
It was another record-breaking moment in Ronaldo's extraordinary career, further strengthening his legacy on football's biggest stage.
Portugal edge Croatia to reach Round of 16
Following Ronaldo's equaliser, Portugal continued to push for a winner before Roberto Martinez reshuffled his attack with several substitutions during the second half.
The changes proved decisive as substitute Goncalo Ramos headed home Rafael Leao's cross in stoppage time to give Portugal a dramatic 2-1 lead.
Croatia believed they had forced extra time moments later when they found the net in the 103rd minute. However, the goal was ruled out following a VAR review for offside, ending Luka Modric's FIFA World Cup journey in heartbreaking fashion.
Portugal will now face one of their toughest tests of the tournament when they take on Spain in the Round of 16. Spain progressed after registering a convincing 3-0 victory over Austria and remains one of the standout teams in the competition after yet to concede a goal.