Ronaldo and Modric Set for Historic World Cup Showdown as Portugal Face Croatia

Posted : 01 July 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić are set to make FIFA World Cup history when Portugal face Croatia in Friday's Round of 32, becoming the first outfield players aged over 40 to compete against each other in the tournament.

The two football legends, who enjoyed immense success together at Real Madrid CF by winning four UEFA Champions League titles in six seasons, continue to defy expectations despite entering the latter stages of their careers. Before this tournament, only Roger Milla had featured in a World Cup as an outfield player after turning 40.

Ronaldo, now 41, reached another remarkable milestone by scoring twice against Uzbekistan to become the first footballer to find the net at six different World Cups. However, Portugal's inconsistent group-stage performances, including dropped points against DR Congo and Colombia, have raised questions about whether the five-time Ballon d'Or winner should continue leading the attack for the full 90 minutes.

The veteran striker has dismissed criticism about his age, insisting he has faced similar doubts throughout his career whenever results have been disappointing. Portugal coach Roberto Martínez has also defended his captain, maintaining that Ronaldo remains physically and mentally capable of playing complete matches despite limited influence in some group-stage fixtures.

Debate over Ronaldo's role has intensified because of Portugal's wealth of attacking talent. During the tournament, players such as João Neves and Bernardo Silva have not always featured prominently, leading some observers to question whether the team is sacrificing tactical flexibility to accommodate its iconic captain. Ronaldo's goals against Uzbekistan remain his only non-penalty strikes in his last 14 appearances at major international tournaments.

Modrić, who recently joined AC Milan, has also faced scrutiny after Croatia's 4-2 defeat to England in their opening match. The midfielder conceded an early penalty before being substituted before the hour mark, prompting suggestions that age may finally be catching up with one of the game's greatest playmakers.

Croatia responded positively by defeating Panama and Ghana, with Modrić celebrating his 200th international appearance and becoming only the fourth men's player to reach that landmark, alongside Ronaldo. The 40-year-old also provided the decisive assist in Croatia's victory over Ghana, underlining his continued importance to a side he inspired to the 2018 World Cup final and the 2022 semifinals.

The winner of Friday's clash is expected to face Spain in the Round of 16, keeping alive hopes of another memorable World Cup run. For the losing side, however, the tournament is likely to mark the final World Cup appearance of one of football's most celebrated icons, bringing an extraordinary international career to a close.

Ronaldo and Modric Set for Historic World Cup Showdown as Portugal Face Croatia

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