Croatia faces one of its biggest tests of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday when it takes on Portugal in the Round of 32. With a place in the Round of 16 on the line, there is no margin for error in this knockout-stage matchup.
Unlike the group stage, every knockout match must produce a winner. Here’s what happens if Croatia wins, ties or loses against Portugal.
What happens if Croatia beats Portugal?
If Croatia defeats Portugal—whether in regulation, extra time or a penalty shootout—it will advance to the Round of 16.
Croatia’s next opponent would be the winner of the Round of 32 match between Spain and Austria. That Round of 16 fixture is scheduled for Monday, July 6.
A victory would also keep Croatia’s hopes of winning its first FIFA World Cup title alive.
What happens if Croatia and Portugal are tied after 90 minutes?
A tie after regulation does not eliminate either team.
Instead, the match proceeds to:
- 30 minutes of extra time, divided into two 15-minute periods.
- If the score remains level after extra time, the winner is determined by a penalty shootout.
There are no replays in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage. One team must advance to the next round.
What happens if Croatia loses to Portugal?
If Croatia loses—whether in regulation, extra time or penalties—its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign comes to an end.
Portugal would advance to the Round of 16 to face the winner of Spain vs. Austria, while Croatia would be eliminated from the tournament.
Croatia vs Portugal stakes
The Round of 32 is the first knockout round of the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup. Every match is single elimination, meaning one team advances and the other is sent home.
Croatia enters the match hoping to continue its impressive recent World Cup tradition. The nation finished runner-up in 2018 and third in 2022, establishing itself as one of international soccer’s most consistent tournament performers.
Portugal, meanwhile, is looking to make another deep run behind one of the tournament’s strongest squads after advancing from the group stage.
Croatia’s potential path to the quarterfinals
If Croatia defeats Portugal, its path would continue as follows:
- Round of 16: Winner of Spain vs. Austria
- Quarterfinals: Winner of the United States vs. Belgium bracket or the winner emerging from the Spain/Austria side, depending on the official knockout bracket
Each victory would move Croatia one step closer to the semifinals and a chance to compete for the 2026 FIFA World Cup championship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Croatia advance with a draw?
No. If the match is tied after 90 minutes, it goes to extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shootout. One team must advance.
Who will Croatia play if it beats Portugal?
Croatia will face the winner of Spain vs. Austria in the Round of 16.
Is Croatia eliminated if it loses to Portugal?
Yes. A loss in regulation, extra time or penalties eliminates Croatia from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
When is Croatia vs Portugal?
Croatia and Portugal meet on Thursday, July 2, in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a place in the Round of 16 at stake.