Ronaldo Sets Two FIFA World Cup Knockout Records in Portugal-Croatia Clash

Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo continued to break records as he became the oldest player to feature in a FIFA World Cup knockout-stage match on Friday.

At 41 years and 147 days old, Ronaldo also became the oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout-stage match. He converted a penalty in the 68th minute to equalise for Portugal against Croatia in their Round of 32 clash.

The goal against Croatia also marked Ronaldo’s first-ever goal in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup.

With his appearance against Croatia, Ronaldo moved into outright third place on the list of players with the most FIFA World Cup matches, with 28 appearances. He is now just one match behind former Germany captain Lothar Matthäus, while Lionel Messi holds the all-time record with 29 appearances.

Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, sealed their place in the Round of 16 with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Croatia. The defeat may have marked the end of the FIFA World Cup journey for Luka Modrić, who is 40 years and 296 days old.

Portugal will face Spain in the Round of 16 on July 7 for a place in the quarterfinals.