Luka Modrić reacts as Portugal edge past Croatia 2-1 in dramatic Nations League clash

Portugal edge past Croatia 2-1 in Nations League thriller

Luka Modrić watched from the bench as Portugal beat Croatia 2-1 on 18 June 2026 in a dramatic Nations League clash. Diogo Jota’s 87th-minute strike sealed the win, sparking wild celebrations in the Portuguese camp.

What happened in the match?

Portugal took the lead through Bruno Fernandes in the 34th minute, but Croatia equalised before half-time through Ivan Perišić. The game swung Portugal’s way deep into stoppage time when Jota finished clinically after a swift counterattack. The final whistle sent the away side into raptures at Estádio da Luz.

Why it matters for Luka Modrić

For Luka Modrić, the 39-year-old midfield maestro, the result marked another setback in Croatia’s Nations League campaign. The veteran playmaker did not feature, yet his presence loomed large over the fixture. Cristiano Ronaldo’s post-match call for Modrić to “calm down” added a personal twist to the drama.

What comes next for both teams?

Portugal now eye a top-two finish in their Nations League group after three matches. Croatia, meanwhile, must regroup before their next fixture. Modrić’s absence hints at rotation or fitness concerns, but his leadership remains vital for the Vatreni’s ambitions.

Ronaldo’s message to Modrić

Ronaldo’s playful “calm down” remark underlined the tension of the final minutes. The pair have shared a storied rivalry since their Real Madrid days, and their bond endures even as their careers enter different phases. The clip of Ronaldo’s comment went viral, adding a human touch to the result.