Ronaldo and Modric are expected to headline the round of 32 clash between Portugal and Croatia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Portugal and Croatia meet in one of the standout ties of the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake and the possibility that one legendary career will end on the sport’s biggest stage. 

Preview

Portugal reached the knockout rounds after finishing second in Group K behind Colombia. Roberto Martinez’s side got a commanding 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan after drawing against DR Congo in their opening game. They then drew Colombia to seal their spot in the knockout rounds.

Despite questions surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s role, Martinez has backed his captain after playing him in every group-stage minute. Portugal still possess one of the tournament’s most talented squads, with Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, Rafael Leão and Gonçalo Ramos providing quality throughout the team.

Croatia once again proved why they are one of international football’s toughest knockout teams. Built around experience, tactical discipline and composure under pressure, Zlatko Dalić’s side have navigated another difficult group and now arrive at the business end of the tournament full of belief.

Much of Croatia’s hopes will rest on the leadership of Luka Modrić, who continues to dictate games despite entering what is likely to be his final World Cup. Alongside Mateo Kovačić, Joško Gvardiol and Andrej Kramarić, Croatia possess the experience needed to frustrate Portugal and capitalise on any mistakes.

The emotional backdrop adds another layer to Thursday’s encounter. Portugal will also be playing with the memory of Diogo Jota firmly in their minds, with both Roberto Martinez and Vitinha speaking about using his memory as extra motivation heading into the knockout rounds.

Portugal face Croatia at midnight Portuguese time, exactly one year after the passing of Diogo Jota.

The Portuguese players have been wearing a special bracelet throughout this World Cup, with their own name and Diogo Jota’s name on it.

He is always with them, and he will be… pic.twitter.com/XBSJJQ8IFD

— 433 (@433) July 2, 2026

Tactically, Portugal are expected to dominate possession, while Croatia will be comfortable absorbing pressure before looking to exploit spaces in transition. Midfield control could ultimately determine the outcome, with Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva battling Modrić and Kovačić for supremacy.

With two experienced managers, elite individual talent and immense stakes, this promises to be one of the most compelling Round of 16 fixtures. Fine margins, moments of brilliance and composure under pressure are likely to decide who books a place in the quarter-finals.

Previous Meetings

Both teams have met six times this decade with Portugal winning four and losing just once. Their last meeting was in 2024 where both teams played a 1-1 draw.

Predicted XI

Portugal Predicted XI
Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Veiga, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha; Neto, Fernandes, Felix; Ronaldo 

Croatia Predicted XI
Livaković; Stanišić, Šutalo, Pongračić, Gvardiol; Modrić, Kovačić; P. Sučić, Baturina, Perišić; Budimir.