A clash is expected between Ronaldo and Modric

All eyes are on the highly anticipated clash between Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup, a match considered one of the most prominent and eagerly awaited of the knockout stages. Portugal qualified for this round after a goalless draw against Colombia in their final group match, finishing second in the group behind group winners Colombia. Both teams had already secured their place in the knockout stage before the final group game. Ronaldo, Portugal's captain and one of the tournament's standout stars, will face a unique test when he meets his former Real Madrid teammate, Luka Modric, the Croatian captain, in a match imbued with historical significance between two stars who defined an era in European football. The match takes on added importance as it could be one of the final chapters in both players' World Cup careers, further heightening its emotional and competitive nature. Both teams enter the match with the ambition of progressing to the later stages, amidst great anticipation for the veteran stars' performance and their ability to make a difference at a crucial moment in the tournament.