Portugal beats Croatia 2-1 in World Cup after VAR cancels late Croatian goal

Portugal advanced to the World Cup round of 16 with a 2-1 victory over Croatia after a VAR review ruled a late Croatian goal offside. The decision came from a sensor‑embedded fragment inside the ball that detected a touch by Croatian defender Yevgeny Matano‑vich, nullifying the equaliser in the 112th minute.

Croatia’s coach, Zlatko Dalić, described the loss as “unfair” and hinted he may step down, saying the team “did not deserve this ending” and lamenting poor officiating. He praised his players’ effort but expressed disappointment with the refereeing decisions that led to the defeat.