'Modric is a football legend who still plays with incredible quality': Ronaldo

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Two legends crossed paths at a pulsating Toronto Stadium here on Thursday as Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal edged Luka Modric’s Croatia 2-1 in a thrilling round of 32 encounter. With Ronaldo, 41, and Modric in the evening of their careers, the stakes were personal as the loser, in all probability, would be playing his last international match. Ultimately, Modric and Croatia bowed out. Though Modric has not officially announced his retirement yet, it’s unlikely that he could play the next World Cup at 44.

After the final whistle, Ronaldo, 41, shared a warm, extended hug with his former Real Madrid teammate, congratulating him on an illustrious international career. Both players have amassed over 200 caps for their countries. “He [Modric] is a football legend who still plays with incredible quality. I’ve told him so many times, ‘congratulations for everything’. I loved seeing him out there again,” Ronaldo said after the match.

Touching tribute to Jota

Beyond the on-pitch drama, the match held profound emotional significance for the Portuguese squad and its fans. It coincided with the one-year anniversary of the tragic passing of former national team forward Diogo Jota, 28, who died alongside his brother Andre Silva in a car accident in Spain on July 3, 2025. In the 21st minute — marking Jota’s Portuguese jersey number — fans released white balloons inside the stadium and united for a poignant minute of applause. “We talk about Diogo every day. He gives us strength. Today was a very special day for us, and it makes reaching the next phase of the tournament even more important,” match-winner Ramos reflected emotionally.

Toronto taken over by fans

The dramatic victory sparked pandemonium in the streets of Toronto. Thousands of jubilant Portuguese fans took over the city centre after the final whistle, causing massive traffic gridlocks that lasted hours. “Ronaldo was unbelievable. He’s older now, but he gets the job done when it matters most. Portugal is going all the way,” Toronto-based Portugal fan Dylan Rocha told mid-day before running off to join his friends in song and dance to celebrate the win.

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