Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal define group against Colombia

No goals, but with guaranteed classification

Colombia and Portugal starred in an intense duel at the Miami stadium, with a full house and a majority of coffee fans. The score did not move: 0-0.

In the first half, Colombia had more possession and generated more arrivals, but failed to score. Portugal stood firm in defense. Cristiano Ronaldo did not have clear options.

The intensity did not decline in the second half. While the Colombians looked for the goal, the Lusitanians responded with danger. However, the tie prevailed.

With this result, Colombia finished leader of Group K with 7 points. Portugal was second with 5 units. Both teams advance to the next round of the tournament.

The match reflected the competitiveness of two teams that chose to secure their place without risking too much.

Croatia sealed its place in the round of 16 of the World Cup by beating Ghana 2-1. The match, played on Saturday at the Philadelphia Eagles stadium, left a historical mark: Luka Modric, at 40 years and 291 days old, became the oldest player to give an assist in the history of the tournament.

A triumph with a seal of experience

The Croatian midfielder took a corner kick that Nikola Vlašic headed home in the 83rd minute to spark the celebration. Before, Petar Sucic had opened the scoring at 31′ with a powerful shot from outside the area. Ghana temporarily tied the score thanks to Derrick Luckassen in the 73rd minute, but could not maintain the tie.

“I told him after the game: you play like you’re 20 years old,” Sucic declared. “He was incredible today. He is our leader, our best player.”

Modric played his 200th game with the Croatian team and was once again key. Their attendance broke the record that dated back to 1966. Vlašic also praised the captain:

“It seems as if he has gone back 10 years in time. One of the best performances I have seen from him with Croatia.”

Ghana, to the second round despite the defeat

Despite the result, Ghana advanced to the knockout phase for the first time since 2010. Coach Carlos Queiroz lamented the defensive error that cost him the winning goal:

“Two easy goals. When you score one more than your opponent, it means you deserve to win.”

Croatia finished second in Group L, only behind England. Ghana came third. Modric, winner of the Ballon d’Or in 2018, continues to be the soul of the ‘Vatreni’ at 40 years old.

FIFA rewards the teams’ progress in the 2026 World Cup. The Mexican National Team is already guaranteed $11 million after securing its place in the round of 32 (round of 32).

The amount is part of the organization’s economic incentive scheme. It serves to cover operating, preparation and logistics expenses during the tournament. In addition, a portion is usually distributed between the players and the coaching staff as goal bonuses.

The figures to continue advancing

If the Tricolor surpasses the round of 32 and reaches the round of 16, the prize will rise to 15 million dollars. A pass to the quarterfinals would increase the purse to 19 million.

As the tournament progresses, the numbers grow. The teams that reach the semifinals secure at least $27 million. The 2026 World Cup champion will receive around 40 million.

Economic impact for the Mexican Federation

Each victory represents a direct financial benefit for the Mexican Football Federation. For now, the team already has 11 million dollars insured just for being among the 32 best in the world. The sporting excitement is accompanied by financial support that allows us to continue competing at the highest level.