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South Africa vs Canada FIFA World Cup: The excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has now reached a critical juncture. Following the drama of the group stage, teams are now facing off in the 'Round of 32' knockout matches. Tonight, one of the biggest blockbuster clashes in the football world is set to take place, as Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal (Seleção das Quinas) takes on Luka Modrić's Croatia (Vatreni).
According to Indian Standard Time (IST), this do-or-die showdown will be played live early tomorrow morning, July 3, 2026, at 12:30 AM (late night on July 2). This thrilling match is being held at the magnificent Toronto Stadium in Toronto. For the team that loses today, the dream of winning the World Cup will come to an end, while the winning team will advance directly to the 'Round of 16' (Pre-Quarterfinals).
Portugal vs Croatia Match Preview
Under the guidance of head coach Roberto Martínez, the Portuguese team is one of the strong contenders to win the tournament. The legendary 41-year-old forward Cristiano Ronaldo will give his all to lead the team to the next round in what is his record-breaking sixth World Cup. The midfield partnership of Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva will control the game, while Rafael Leão will test the Croatian defense with his blistering pace.
On the other hand, led by the 'Magician' Luka Modrić, the Croatian team is considered one of the most dangerous and experienced sides in the knockout stage.
Croatia excels at employing a solid, compact defense and dragging matches into extra time and penalty shootouts. The team will rely heavily on Mateo Kovačić and Andrej Kramarić, who could catch Portugal off guard with counter-attacks.Portugal vs Croatia Predicted Playing 11 & Lineups
Portugal's Probable Playing XI (Formation: 4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Diogo Costa
- Defenders: João Cancelo, Rúben Dias (C), Gonçalo Inácio, Nuno Mendes
- Defensive Midfielders: Vitinha, João Palhinha
- Attacking Midfielders: Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leão
- Striker/Centre-Forward: Cristiano Ronaldo
Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2026 Most Goals: Current Golden Boot Standings
Croatia's Probable Playing XI (Formation: 4-3-3)
- Goalkeeper: Dominik Livaković
- Defenders: Josip Juranović, Josip Šutalo, Joško Gvardiol, Borna Sosa
- Midfielders: Luka Modrić (C), Mateo Kovačić, Mario Pašalić
- Forwards: Lovro Majer, Andrej Kramarić, Ivan Perišić
Portugal vs Croatia Match Prediction
This contest will primarily be a battle between Portugal's dangerous attack and Croatia's strong midfield and defensive structure. Portugal will aim to maintain ball possession right from the start of the match. However, Luka Modrić's experience and Livaković's goalkeeping could prove to be the biggest obstacles for Portugal. The Croatian team will adopt a strategy of slowing down the pace of the game to frustrate Portugal.
Who will win the Portugal vs Croatia match?
According to official Google win probability data, Portugal is the strong favorite to win this match within the regulation 90 minutes.
- Probability of a Portugal win: 56%
- Probability of a Croatia win: 19%
- Probability of the match going to extra time (draw): 25%
Our Prediction: Backed by their attacking balance and a 56% win probability, Portugal could clinch the match 2-1 after a hard-fought contest. However, given Croatia's history, there is a strong possibility of the match stretching into extra time or penalties (25% chance).
Also Read: FIFA 2026: Spain vs Austria Match Prediction, Who Will Win Today, Playing 11
