Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric share heartwarming moment after Portugal defeat Croatia

Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric gave everybody something to smile about after the dramatic clash between Portugal and Croatia concluded in the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The pair of icons both had their moments in the match, which eventually finished 2-1 in favour of ‘CR7’.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric embraced following Portugal’s win against Croatia

Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric are undeniably two of the greatest of the modern era, with both men having achieved so much for their countries. Of course, the Portuguese sensation lifted the European Championship in 2016, while the central midfielder helped guide his underdog nation to a historic World Cup final in 2018.

However, with the pair now in their 40s, this is almost definitely the last time they will face off on the grandest stage of them all. Ronaldo’s sister claims her brother will retire from international football after this World Cup, while Modric is also unlikely to have another left in him.

But while their best days are behind them, they still had their moments, with the Croatian controlling the tempo of the match and his rival scoring a penalty.

WOW: Cristiano Ronaldo deserves to win the FIFA World Cup 2026 for one reason, says legend

In the aftermath of the fixture, in which Portugal emerged victorious following a controversial disallowed goal for the Balkan nation, the pair shared a long embrace before exchanging emotional words, with the former Real Madrid teammates knowing that they’ll never share a moment like this ever again.