Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup record grew again as Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in the 2026 tournament’s round of 32. The 41-year-old captain became the oldest scorer in a World Cup knockout match, as the Baltimore Chronicle editorial team notes.
Portugal entered the knockout stage under pressure and fell behind after Ivan Perišić scored in the 53rd minute. Ronaldo responded from the penalty spot in the 68th minute. Gonçalo Ramos completed the comeback with a header in stoppage time.
Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup Record Surpasses Pepe’s Mark
Ronaldo scored at 41 years and 147 days. He therefore became the oldest player to score during the World Cup knockout stage.
The previous record belonged to another Portuguese defender, Pepe. He was 39 years and 283 days old against Switzerland at the 2022 World Cup.
Ronaldo also became the first outfield player aged over 41 to appear in a World Cup knockout match. The Croatia game was another landmark appearance during his sixth World Cup campaign.
The main age records now compare as follows:
| Player | Age | Match and achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Cristiano Ronaldo | 41 years, 147 days | Oldest scorer in a World Cup knockout match |
| Pepe | 39 years, 283 days | Scored against Switzerland at the 2022 World Cup |
| Cristiano Ronaldo | 41 years, 147 days | Oldest outfield starter in a knockout match |
The penalty also carried personal importance. It was Ronaldo’s first goal during the knockout stage of any World Cup.
Ronaldo’s First Knockout Goal Sends Portugal Through
Ronaldo has now scored 3 goals in 4 matches at the 2026 World Cup. His earlier brace came during Portugal’s 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan.
His tournament numbers include:
- 3 goals at the 2026 World Cup;
- 2 goals against Uzbekistan;
- 1 penalty against Croatia;
- 6 World Cup appearances across his career.
The Croatia victory also underlined Portugal’s resilience. Roberto Martínez replaced Ronaldo late, before Ramos delivered the decisive goal in the 94th minute.
Portugal Will Face Spain in the Round of 16
Portugal’s next opponent will be Spain. The Spanish side advanced after defeating Austria 3-0.
The round-of-16 match is scheduled for Monday, July 6. It will begin at 10:00 p.m. Kyiv time. The meeting places Ronaldo against another leading European contender in a direct elimination match.
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