37-year-old Ivan Perisic has given Croatia a shock lead over Portugal in the World Cup Round of 32. The former Tottenham man was on hand early in the second half, picking up the ball unmarked at the back post before rifling past goalkeeper Diogo Costa.It was the culmination of a good spell from Croatia, who had been the less dominant side in the first half. But less than 10 minutes into the second period, the PSV Eindhoven man sparked wild celebrations among his team-mates and the heavily outnumbered fans in the stadium.At half-time Portugal had managed nine shots, but only one had found the target.Cristiano Ronaldo had gone close several times, just missing a number of headers from teasing crosses. He also had a goal ruled out for a marginal offside call.Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes also had two chances to put Portugal ahead in the match, only to be denied on both occassions.Now, Ronaldo and Co must find a way to mount a comeback, or suffer a shock exit at the first knockout round.It could also mark the end of Ronaldos international career, with reports emerging earlier in the day that he will retire from Portugal duties after the tournament. Topics Croatia National Football Team Portugal National Football Team Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read LIVE Portugal v Croatia: Commentary, updates, goals and stats as Ronaldo looks to end Modrics career Jon Fisher 1st July, 2026 World Cup 2026 live: Portugal vs Croatia confirmed teams and full line ups, TV channel, live online stream and stats Mitch Fretton 2nd July, 2026 World Cup boss dodges Cristiano Ronaldo question before Portugal vs Croatia: They are above public opinion Ben Miller 2nd July, 2026 Portugal v Croatia: World Cup 2026 line-ups, stats and TV streams as Ronaldo looks to get back on goal train Jon Fisher 1st July, 2026 Croatia star calls World Cup idol Cristiano Ronaldo not the best footballer: Weve seen its Messi Ben Miller 30th June, 2026 Cristiano Ronaldo: World Cup 2026 playing schedule, fixtures, kick off times, where to watch, confirmed news updates and full Portugal squad Ben Miller 29th June, 2026
