The First and Final Epic Clash in World Cup History Between Ronaldo and Modrić

Despite their successful years together at Real Madrid, Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić face each other on the pitch for the first and last time in the two-decade history of the FIFA World Cup. Kathmandu, 18 Ashar — In the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, two football legends will go head-to-head tonight: Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić. This encounter between two European football powerhouses is more than just a pre-quarterfinal battle; it is a fight to preserve the legacy of two veteran stars on the international stage.

Portugal, having drawn against Congo and Colombia and secured a win against Uzbekistan in the group stage, is still searching for their rhythm. Roberto Martínez’s squad, despite possessing world-class talent, has not yet managed to deliver the organized performances expected.

Conversely, Croatia, after a loss to England but wins over Panama and Ghana, has qualified for the knockout stage and aims to stun Portugal through strong determination and midfield experience. Both superstars started their World Cup journeys in 2006, representing their countries, and have remained at the pinnacle of world football for nearly two decades. Interestingly, despite their extensive international careers and successful years together at Real Madrid, Ronaldo and Modrić are meeting on opposing sides in the World Cup for the first and final time in its 20-year history.

Modrić, who led Croatia to the final and semifinal in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups respectively, is considered one of the all-time greatest midfielders in World Cup history. Ronaldo, the only player to score in six different World Cups, faces what is expected to be his final and biggest test on the international stage. Amidst all this, the bitter truth remains that the journey for one of these two legends, both pursuing their maiden World Cup title, will end here.

Head-to-head records favor Portugal, who have dominated with seven wins, compared to Croatia’s two wins and one draw across 10 encounters between the two teams. This will be the first time Portugal and Croatia meet on the World Cup stage, having never faced each other in the tournament before.

Portugal’s squad faces no major injury concerns. Cristiano Ronaldo will lead the attack, supported by Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leão. “Our team has exceptional ability, but there is no room for mistakes in the knockout stage. Croatia has very experienced players. We must balance defense and attack,” said Portugal’s head coach Roberto Martínez.

Croatia also enters without injury troubles. The captain Luka Modrić and Mateo Kovačić’s midfield partnership is expected to be pivotal. Maintaining a high tempo for 90 minutes will be their chief challenge. “We have fought a hard road to get here. Portugal is strong but we know well how to handle pressure,” stated Croatian coach Zlatko Dalić.

Probable Starting XI:
Portugal: Diego Costa (Goalkeeper), João Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, Rúben Neves, Bruno Fernandes, João Félix, Rafael Leão, Cristiano Ronaldo
Croatia: Dominik Livaković (Goalkeeper), Josip Stanišić, Josip Šutalo, Marin Pongračić, Joško Gvardiol, Luka Modrić, Mateo Kovačić, Nikola Vlašić, Petar Stanić, Ivan Perišić, Ante Budimir