Ronaldo leads Portugal against Croatia

Cristiano Ronaldo will lead Portugal in a high-stakes FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash against Croatia in Toronto on Thursday, with both sides battling to keep their title hopes alive.

Portugal advanced as runners-up in Group K, while Croatia finished second in Group L. The winner will face either Spain or Austria in the Round of 16.

Despite questions over Portugal’s form and reliance on 41-year-old Ronaldo, Roberto Martínez’s side boasts considerable attacking talent. Croatia, meanwhile, enter the knockout stage with a reputation for resilience and tactical discipline under coach Zlatko Dalić.

Portugal hold the historical advantage, winning seven of their 10 previous meetings, while Croatia have won once and drawn twice.

The match kicks off at 5:00 am (BST) on Friday.