Croatia's World Cup knockout loss to Portugal highlighted by VAR chip controversy

Croatia were eliminated in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup after a 2‑1 defeat to Portugal in Toronto. Ivan Perišić gave Croatia a 1‑0 lead in the 53rd minute, but Cristiano Ronaldo equalised from the spot in the 68th. In added‑time, Gonçalo Ramos scored from a fourth‑minute penalty to seal Portugal’s win.

Substitute Igor Matanović entered in the second half and was involved in a contentious VAR decision. He later said a chip in the ball indicated a touch on his hair, prompting the referee to call an offside and disallow a Croatian goal. Matanović expressed disappointment, noting the team deserved more, while manager Zlatko Dalić also lamented the loss and the missed chances caused by VAR rulings.

The defeat leaves Croatia out of the tournament’s later stages and fuels debate over the use of ball‑chip technology in officiating.