Portugal and Croatia are set to clash in the round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Toronto Stadium in Ontario, Canada. The match kicks off on Thursday at 7:00 PM local time (23:00 GMT).

The game could mark the final World Cup appearance for either 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo or 40-year-old Luka Modric. Both outfield players over 40 will make history as the first such duo to face off in a World Cup.

Croatia has shown resilience after an opening loss to England, bouncing back with a 1-0 win over Panama and a 2-1 victory against Ghana. Portugal, however, underwhelmed in the group stage with just one win and two draws, with Ronaldo looking off the pace.

Ronaldo played every minute of the group stage, but his performances drew criticism. Portugal coach Roberto Martinez continues to back him. Modric, meanwhile, conceded a penalty against England and was substituted early.

The winner will face either Spain or Austria. Opta's supercomputer gives Portugal a 54.5% chance of winning in regulation time, with Croatia at 20.4%.

Source: www.aljazeera.com