Prateek Tanmay
Modric earned his 200th international cap for Croatia just over a week ago at the stadium in Toronto in a crucial win for his squad over Panama. At 40 years old, he’s still a pillar of Croatia’s midfield, having led the team to second- and third-place finishes in the last two World Cups and will be crucial against Portugal. Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic expects the match to be decided at his position. Players on both sides are aware the chance to advance is somewhat overshadowed by the two stars who were once teammates at Real Madrid for six seasons.
Ronaldo’s fading powers leave Portugal in danger at World Cup 2026
Portugal manager said Ronaldo’s game is built around experience, discipline and intelligent movement rather than physical output alone. (AP Photo)
Age has defeated Cristiano Ronaldo. It offered another cold reminder. Several taps on his shoulders, several memos. If he still doesn’t feel it, the caprices of time and the reconciliation with his faded prowess, another golden generation of Portugal will wither with their unfulfilled renown.
Ronaldo is not only the problem for Portugal, but he is central to it.
The worst moment came in stoppage time before half-time. Pedro Neto blitzed down the right, all alone, and was about to cross from the edge of the box. He found no one. Not Ronaldo, not his shadow, not even a shadow of his shadow. He searched. Ronaldo was midway from the centre circle. Neto waited like Vladimir for Godot. By the time Ronaldo arrived, the Colombian had crowded him and the ball was stolen off Neto’s feet. Ronaldo gritted his teeth in anguish. He was not where he had to be. And that would hurt him more than anything else.
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