Cristiano Ronaldo eliminates Modric, Vozinha faces Messi in unexpected veteran battle

   ​With the round of 16 approaching, the 2026 World Cup is starting to separate genuine contenders from the rest. Switzerland took a 2-0 win over Algeria thanks to goals from Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye, extending their run to three consecutive World Cup victories—an achievement for the A-Team Nati. Alongside them, Portugal and Spain advanced, delivering the latest updates from North America.
Portugal kept their dream alive with a dramatic late comeback against Croatia at Toronto’s BMO Field, winning 2-1 after falling behind shortly after the break. Ivan Perisic opened the scoring in the 53rd minute for Croatia, seemingly on course to reach the knockout stage for the third consecutive World Cup. However, Cristiano Ronaldo, the veteran talisman, converted a penalty in the 68th minute and soon after appeared to score from offside. The game swung when substitute Goncalo Ramos headed Rafael Leao’s cross past the keeper to seal Portugal’s victory and send them into a last-16 encounter with Spain. Ronaldo’s pursuit of the World Cup trophy remains alive, while Luka Modric and Croatia exit the tournament. Croatia had three goals disallowed in the second half, including a late equaliser disallowed by VAR, which helped Portugal reach the next round on neutral terms.
In the other standout knockout, Spain overwhelmed Austria 3-0. Mikel Oyarzabal produced a masterclass, delivering two goals and an assist, as Spain converted their group-stage form into a commanding win. Pedro Porro added his first international goal, and Spain’s defense remained stingy, continuing their perfect record on North American soil. Spain’s win sets up a potential last-16 clash with either Portugal or Croatia. Oyarzabal, after a prolific run this year, has now contributed 24 goals or assists across his last 16 appearances for Spain, underscoring his pivotal role in La Roja’s bid for World Cup glory. While France may still be favorites, Spain’s performance signals a strong challenge as the tournament progresses.