World Cup 2026: Cristiano Ronaldo and Modrić in decisive Portugal-Croatia showdown

Portugal finished second in Group K with five points, thanks in particular to a convincing 5-0 win over Uzbekistan and two draws against DR Congo and Colombia. Under Roberto Martinez, the Seleção rely on a high level of possession but have struggled to break down packed defenses, a point to watch in this knockout match.

For their part, Croatia, coached by Zlatko Dalić, put together a solid campaign in Group L, suffering an opening defeat to England (4-2) before rebounding with wins over Panama (1-0) and Ghana (2-1) to finish second. Buoyed by their experience in the knockout stages, the Croatian side will count on their resilience and the leadership of their key players.

This heavyweight duel will spotlight two iconic players: Cristiano Ronaldo, a two-goal scorer in the group stage and the first player to score in six different editions of the World Cup, and Luka Modrić, the 40-year-old playmaker who remains central to Croatia’s midfield. The match looks set to be tactically demanding, with victory offering a key step toward the quarter-finals.

Focus on Portugal

Portugal line up in a 4-2-3-1 under Roberto Martinez. In defense, Diogo Costa starts in goal behind a back line made up of João Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga and Nuno Mendes. The double pivot in midfield combines João Neves and Vitinha to balance ball-winning and distribution. Ahead of them, Pedro Neto, Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leão drive the attacking play, with Cristiano Ronaldo up front, positioned as the main danger for the opposition. This lineup blends youth and experience, with Bruno Fernandes’ technical control and Ronaldo’s finishing power as major assets for breaking down defenses.

Focus on Croatia

Croatia also set up in a 4-2-3-1 under Zlatko Dalić. Dominik Livaković protects the goal behind a defense composed of Josip Stanišić, Josip Šutalo, Marin Pongračić and Ivan Perišić. The double pivot pairs Luka Modrić and Mateo Kovačić, symbols of experience and control of the game. They are supported further forward by Nikola Vlašić, Petar Sučić and Martin Baturina, who provide the link to striker Ante Budimir. The setup is built on a balance between defensive solidity and midfield creativity, with Modrić as the conductor and Budimir as the attacking focal point. Croatia know how to handle the tension of knockout matches, a significant advantage against Portugal.