Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first ever World Cup knockout-stage goal and became the oldest player to do so, as Portugal edged past Croatia 2-1 in the last 32. The 41-year-old forward slotted a penalty down the middle after a VAR review, ending a drought that had lasted six tournaments.
Ronaldo's goal came after Croatia had taken the lead through Ivan Perisic in the second half. Portugal were awarded the spot kick when Nikola Vlasic brought down Renato Veiga during a corner. The goal also saw Ronaldo surpass the record set by his former teammate Pepe, who scored at the age of 39 years and nine months.
Earlier in the match, Ronaldo had a superb equaliser disallowed for offside after a deft flick. That decision reportedly persuaded Portugal manager Roberto Martinez not to substitute Ronaldo, who had been largely ineffective until that point. BBC co-commentator Stephen Warnock noted that Portugal players were desperate to pick out Ronaldo, even when better options were available.
After Croatia pushed for an equaliser and had a goal disallowed for offside, Ronaldo was replaced with 10 minutes remaining. Substitute Goncalo Ramos then headed home a cross from Rafael Leao in stoppage time to secure the victory. Croatia thought they had levelled with the last kick, but VAR ruled out the goal for a marginal offside.
Portugal will face Spain in the last 16 after Spain defeated Austria 3-0 on Thursday.
