Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first goal in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup during Portugal’s Round of 32 against Croatia in Toronto on Thursday.
Ronaldo had played eight knockout games in five World Cup appearances without registering a goal or assist.
The goal against Croatia was the 41-year-old’s 11th World Cup goal, moving him level with Hungary’s Sandor Kocsis and Germany’s Jurgen Klinsmann on the tournament’s all-time scoring list.
Ronaldo converted a penalty in the 68th minute to equalize for Portugal, who sealed a dramatic victory through Goncalo Ramos’ extra-time winner.
Portugal will then face Spain in the eighth finals.
Published on July 3, 2026
