Portugal advanced from their World Cup knockout tie against Croatia with a 2–1 victory, controlling proceedings through superior possession and clinical finishing. The hosts dominated with 60 per cent possession and generated an expected goals tally of 2.2, converting two of their three shots on target into goals through Cristiano Ronaldo and Goncalo Ramos. Croatia, operating in a 4–2–3–1 formation matching Portugal's setup, created less but remained threatening, registering six shots on target and 1.34 xG; Ivan Perisic's finish accounted for their sole goal. Portugal's goalkeeper proved decisive, saving at 83 per cent efficiency across six shots faced and overperforming his expected goals conceded by 0.51, while Croatia's shot-stopper managed only 33 per cent on three attempts. The Portuguese controlled the tempo without overwhelming their opponents, reflecting a composed, pragmatic approach befitting knockout football. Portugal's efficiency in front of goal proved the difference in a closely contested affair.