Cristiano Ronaldo inspired a dramatic Portugal comeback after calmly converting a penalty to help his side secure a thrilling 2-1 victory over Croatia in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 at Toronto Stadium.
The veteran forward, now 41, became the centre of attention even before taking his spot-kick. Television cameras captured Ronaldo quietly saying “Bismillah” twice as he prepared for the crucial penalty under intense pressure, a moment that quickly drew widespread attention among football fans.
Portugal had fallen behind early in the second half after Ivan Perišić fired Croatia into the lead in the 53rd minute, putting the European giants on the brink of a shock exit from the tournament.
Ronaldo, who currently plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, responded by confidently sending the goalkeeper the wrong way with a composed penalty down the middle, levelling the score at 1-1 and reigniting Portugal’s hopes.
The equaliser shifted the momentum firmly in Portugal’s favour as Roberto Martínez’s side pushed relentlessly for a winner. Croatia defended resolutely for much of the closing stages, with the match seemingly destined for extra time.
However, Portugal snatched a dramatic victory deep into stoppage time when Gonçalo Ramos powered home a header in the 90+4th minute from a pinpoint cross, sealing a remarkable 2-1 comeback.
The hard-fought win sends Portugal through to the Round of 16, where they will face fierce Iberian rivals Spain in what promises to be one of the tournament’s biggest knockout clashes.
