Ramos sends Portugal into last 16 as VAR drama caps wild finish against Croatia
Portugal defeated Croatia in a dramatic World Cup 2026 match, securing a spot in the last 16 thanks to a late goal by Gonçalo Ramos. The match was notable for its high intensity and the historic use of VAR to disallow four goals.
Why it matters
It documents a significant event in a major global sporting tournament, reflecting the impact of technology on officiating in professional sports.
Gonçalo Ramos is swamped by teammates after scoring the winning goal in added time for Portugal. Gonçalo Ramos is swamped by teammates after scoring the winning goal in added time for Portugal. World Cup 2026 Ramos sends Portugal into last 16 as VAR drama caps wild finish against Croatia Paul MacInnes at Toronto Stadium Thu 2 Jul 2026 21.32 EDT Last modified on Fri 3 Jul 2026 09.37 EDT Share Prefer the Guardian on Google Rafael Leão dropped to his knees. His cross had just been flicked into the net by Gonçalo Ramos to take Portugal to the last 16 of the World Cup . Leão’s expression was not one of delight, but relief.
The article is a standard sports match report focusing on game events and outcomes.
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