Ronaldo Modrić (foto: Posnetek zaslona)
Cristiano Ronaldo shared what he told Luka Modrić after Portugal's dramatic World Cup victory ended the Croatian captain's likely final tournament.
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Portugal's dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia produced one of the most emotional moments of the 2026 World Cup as Cristiano Ronaldo consoled his longtime teammate and friend Luka Modrić after the final whistle.
While Portugal celebrated a place in the quarter-finals, Modrić struggled to hide his emotions following what many believe was his final World Cup appearance.
The cameras captured Ronaldo embracing the Croatian captain and speaking to him for several moments before the pair left the pitch.
After the match, the Portuguese legend revealed what he had said.
"I played with Luka for many years. It's wonderful to see him still performing at such a high level. I told him, 'Luka, congratulations. I wish you all the best for the rest of your career."
A friendship forged at Real Madrid
The defeat was especially painful for Modrić, who was making his sixth World Cup appearance and his 202nd match for Croatia.
At 40 years old, many expect the legendary midfielder to bring his international career to an end after another outstanding spell with his country.
Croatia looked set to continue their tournament after Ivan Perišić opened the scoring in the 53rd minute.
Portugal responded through Ronaldo's penalty before substitute Gonçalo Ramos completed the comeback with a dramatic stoppage-time winner to send Roberto Martínez's side into the quarter-finals, where Spain await.
One of football's greatest partnerships
Ronaldo and Modrić spent six unforgettable seasons together at Real Madrid between 2012 and 2018, forming the core of one of the club's greatest eras.
Together they won four UEFA Champions League titles, one La Liga crown, one Copa del Rey and two FIFA Club World Cups, creating a friendship that has endured long after they stopped playing alongside one another.
Even in defeat, Modrić received one final show of respect from one of football's greatest players, in a moment that summed up the bond between two modern legends.