World Cup: What Cristiano Ronaldo Told Luka Modric After Croatia’s Defeat to Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo revealed his heartfelt conversation with Luka Modric after Portugal’s dramatic World Cup victory, praising the Croatian midfielder’s longevity and remarkable career.

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed the message he shared with longtime teammate Luka Modric after Portugal’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Portugal fought back from a goal down to eliminate Croatia and book a place in the Round of 16, where they will face European champions Spain.

Croatia struck first in the 53rd minute through experienced winger Ivan Perisic, who gave Zlatko Dalić’s side hope of progressing to the knockout stage.

Portugal responded in the 68th minute after being awarded a penalty, with Ronaldo calmly converting from the spot to restore parity.

The goal was historic for the 41-year-old, as it marked his first-ever strike in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup despite his remarkable international career.

As the contest appeared destined for extra time, substitute Goncalo Ramos emerged as Portugal’s hero, heading home a dramatic winner in the 94th minute.

Croatia thought they had forced extra time when Josko Gvardiol found the net in the 103rd minute.

However, the goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR review, ending Croatia’s hopes of a comeback and confirming Portugal’s passage into the last 16.

After the final whistle, Ronaldo was seen speaking warmly with Modric, his former Real Madrid teammate, who continues to compete at the highest level despite being in the latter stages of his career.

Speaking after the match, Ronaldo disclosed that he congratulated the Croatian midfielder for his enduring excellence and wished him well for the future.

“I played many years with Modrić. It’s great to see him still playing at the top level,” Ronaldo said, according to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

“I told him: ‘Congrats, Luka. Good luck for the future of your career.’”

Ronaldo and Modric enjoyed several successful years together at Real Madrid, winning multiple UEFA Champions League titles and domestic honours before Ronaldo left the Spanish giants in 2018.

Their exchange after the World Cup clash reflected the mutual respect that has developed between two of football’s most accomplished veterans over the years.