Huge VAR call prolongs Ronaldo's last dance but ends Modric's

Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup journey continues after Portugal's narrow win over Croatia, where a controversial VAR decision denied Croatia a late equalizer, ending Luka Modric's tournament.

In a dramatic World Cup knockout match, Portugal edged past Croatia 2-1, thanks to a brace from Cristiano Ronaldo. However, the game's defining moment came in stoppage time when a VAR review disallowed a potential equalizer for Croatia, sparking intense debate and ending Luka Modric's World Cup dream. The match started cautiously, with both teams focusing on midfield control. Portugal took the lead in the 25th minute when Bernardo Silva's cross found Ronaldo, who slotted home from close range. The goal moved Ronaldo level with Eusebio's Portuguese record of nine World Cup goals. Croatia responded well and equalized in the 40th minute. Ivan Perisic headed a corner into the path of Andrej Kramaric, who volleyed home from six yards. The first half ended 1-1, with both sides having chances. Portugal regained the lead in the 60th minute through a stunning free-kick from Ronaldo. The veteran forward curled the ball over the wall and into the top corner, leaving Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic with no chance. It was a moment of brilliance from the 37-year-old, who continues to defy age. Croatia pushed hard for an equalizer in the final stages. Modric orchestrated several attacks, but Portugal's defense held firm. In the 93rd minute, Croatia won a corner. Modric's delivery found Bruno Petkovic, whose header hit the crossbar and bounced over the line. Croatian players celebrated wildly, but the referee signaled for a VAR check. After a lengthy review, the goal was disallowed for a push by Petkovic on a Portuguese defender. The decision infuriated Croatia, but it stood. The VAR call proved decisive. Ronaldo, now 37, extends his World Cup campaign, while Modric, 38, sees his tournament end in heartbreaking fashion. Modric was seen in tears after the final whistle, a poignant image for a player who led Croatia to the final in 2018. The match highlighted the growing influence of VAR in major tournaments. While some praised the technology for ensuring fairness, others criticized the subjective nature of the foul call. Regardless, Portugal advances to face a tough opponent in the quarterfinals, while Croatia must reflect on what might have been. For Ronaldo, the dream of a World Cup title remains alive; for Modric, it is over.

Huge VAR call prolongs Ronaldo's last dance but ends Modric's

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