Without goals but with a guaranteed ticket: Colombia and Portugal tie

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.

Portugal seeks leadership

With a ticket to the round of 16 secured, Portugal faces Colombia this Saturday in Miami. The match will define the winner of Group K.

Cristiano Ronaldo arrived in the city with a light jacket, despite the almost 38 degrees Celsius. He was wearing a T-shirt and shorts, and gave a thumbs-up to fans waiting for his bus.

Historical goals

The Portuguese striker has two goals in this World Cup, reaching 10 in six World Cups. He is the only player in history to score in six different editions of the tournament.

Possible crossing with Messi

If Portugal wins, it will be the leader of the group and will be on the same side of the table as Argentina. That would open the door to a confrontation between Cristiano and Lionel Messi in the quarterfinals, on July 11.

Colombia, for its part, needs to win to top the group. The match promises intensity at the close of the group stage.

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.