Modric earned his 200th international cap for Croatia a week ago in a crucial win for his side over Panama at the Toronto Stadium. At 40, he is still a pillar of Croatia’s midfield, leading the team to second and third place finishes at 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 know that the two stars, who were once teammates during six seasons at Real Madrid, have little chance of a move forward.
Ronaldo’s fading powers make Portugal a threat at the 2026 World Cup
The Portugal manager said Ronaldo’s game is based on experience, discipline and intelligent movement rather than just physical output. (AP Photo)
Age has defeated Cristiano Ronaldo. This provided another chilling reminder. Many taps on his shoulder, many memos. If he had not yet realized it, the charms of time and the reconciliation of his fading might, another golden generation of Portugal would wither away in their imperfect name.
Ronaldo is Portugal’s problem, but he is at the center of it.
The worst moment came in stoppage time before half time. Pedro Neto flew alone down the right and was about to cross from the edge of the box. He found none. Not Ronaldo, not his shadow, not even his shadow. He searched. Ronaldo was in the center of the central circle. Neto was waiting for Godot like Vladimir. Colombia swarmed him until Ronaldo arrived and the ball was stolen from Neto’s feet. Ronaldo gritted his teeth in pain. He wasn’t where he should have been. And that would hurt him more than anything else.