Portugal face Croatia in a high-stakes Round of 32 showdown at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday, July 2, with a place in the Round of 16 on the line.
The match kicks off at 7:00 p.m. ET in Toronto, and only one team will advance to the next stage of the tournament. Here’s what each possible outcome means for Portugal.
What happens if Portugal beat Croatia?
If Portugal defeat Croatia, they will advance to the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Portugal would then face the winner of the other Round of 32 matchup between Spain and Austria, with a berth in the quarterfinals at stake.
A victory would keep Portugal’s hopes of winning their first FIFA World Cup title alive and move them one step closer to the final.
What happens if Portugal and Croatia are tied after 90 minutes?
Unlike the group stage, knockout matches cannot end in a draw.
If Portugal and Croatia are level after regulation, the match will proceed to:
- 30 minutes of extra time (two 15-minute halves).
- If the score remains tied after extra time, the winner will be decided by a penalty shootout.
The team that wins the shootout advances to the Round of 16, while the losing team is eliminated from the tournament.
What happens if Portugal lose to Croatia?
If Portugal lose to Croatia—whether in regulation, extra time or penalties—their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign will come to an end.
Croatia would advance to the Round of 16 to face the winner of Spain vs. Austria, while Portugal would be eliminated from the tournament.
Portugal’s path to the Round of 16
Portugal enter the knockout stage knowing that every match is now win-or-go-home. There are no second chances once the Round of 32 begins.
Should Portugal defeat Croatia, they would move into the last 16 and remain four victories away from lifting the FIFA World Cup trophy.
Portugal vs. Croatia kickoff time
The Round of 32 match between Portugal and Croatia is scheduled for:
- Date: Thursday, July 2, 2026
- Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
- Round: FIFA World Cup Round of 32
- Winner advances to: Round of 16 vs. the winner of Spain vs. Austria
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Portugal advance with a draw?
No. Knockout matches cannot finish as draws. If the teams are tied after 90 minutes, they play extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shootout to determine the winner.
Who does Portugal play if they beat Croatia?
Portugal will face the winner of the Round of 32 match between Spain and Austria in the Round of 16.
Is Portugal eliminated if they lose?
Yes. Any loss in the knockout stage—including after extra time or penalties—eliminates Portugal from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.