FIFA World Cup 2026: Cristiano Ronaldo becomes oldest player to score in WC knockout match
Toronto [Canada], July 3 (ANI): Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo etched his name into the history books by becoming the oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout match during Portugal's 2-1 victory over Croatia in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Thursday (local time).
The 41-year-old reached the milestone at the age of 41 years and 147 days, surpassing the previous record for the oldest goalscorer in a World Cup knockout fixture.
Interestingly, it is also the first-ever goal in Knockout matches for Al-Nassr captain Ronaldo, who is featuring in his record sixth FIFA World Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo continues to break records at @FIFAWorldCup 2026 ππ΅πΉ pic.twitter.com/4Dd7xIj2dR
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) July 3, 2026
Ronaldo scored from the penalty spot in the 67th minute after a VAR review awarded Portugal a spot-kick, cancelling out Ivan Perisic's opener for Croatia and bringing Roberto Martinez's side level.
The legendary footballer was also named Player of the Match for his superb performance throughout the match.
π π©π£: Cristiano Ronaldo ββ€οΈπ₯#VaiDarPortugal | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/CVZTD9IW2Q
— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) July 3, 2026
Portugal secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Croatia in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32, with substitute Goncalo Ramos heading home a stoppage-time winner to send Roberto Martinez's side into the Round of 16.
Croatia had taken the lead through Ivan Perisic, who became the country's all-time leading World Cup scorer, before Cristiano Ronaldo equalised from the penalty spot after a VAR review.
Croatia had two goals ruled out for offside, including a late equaliser deep into stoppage time, as Portugal held on to set up an all-Iberian Round of 16 clash against Spain. The match also marked the end of Luka Modric's potential World Cup career. (ANI)
