Portugal Edge Past Croatia in Thriller
Portugal booked their place in the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup after a dramatic 2-1 win over Croatia. Ivan Perišić gave Croatia an early second‑half lead, but Cristiano Ronaldo finally opened his World Cup knockout account by converting a penalty following a VAR‑reviewed foul on Renato Veiga.
With the match heading toward extra time, substitute Gonçalo Ramos rose highest to meet Rafael Leão’s cross and headed the winner in the 94th minute. Croatia thought they had forced extra time when Josko Gvardiol scored deep into stoppage time, but VAR ruled the effort offside.
Spain Dominate Austria to Secure First Knockout Win in 16 Years
Spain produced a commanding 3‑0 victory over Austria, marking their first men’s World Cup knockout triumph since 2010. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring after 36 minutes, Pedro Porro doubled the lead midway through the second half, and Oyarzabal added his fourth tournament goal after a slick assist from Marc Cucurella.
The Spaniards remained resolute at the back, joining Mexico as the only teams yet to concede a goal after four matches in the tournament.
Switzerland Make Historic Breakthrough Against Algeria
Switzerland claimed a comfortable 2‑0 win over Algeria, earning a Cup win since 1938. Breel Embolo finished a slick move to put the Swiss ahead inside ten minutes, and Dan Ndoye doubled the advantage just 46 seconds into the second half.
Algeria created few clear chances as goalkeeper Gregor Kobel enjoyed a relatively quiet evening. The victory sees Murat Yakin’s side reach the last 16 for a fourth consecutive World Cup.
Quarter‑Final Paths Set
Portugal will now face fellow European champions Spain in Dallas on 6 July. Switzerland await the winner of the Colombia‑Ghana clash, with the meeting scheduled for Vancouver on 7 July.
