FIFA: Cristiano Ronaldo greets sea of fans from Toronto hotel balcony after Portugal's thrilling win over Croatia
Toronto, July 3
Fans of the Portugal national football team, particularly those of Cristiano Ronaldo, were treated to a memorable sight in Toronto on Thursday evening as the football icon, accompanied by his teammates, stepped onto the hotel balcony to greet the sea of supporters gathered following the thrilling victory over Croatia in the ongoing FIFA World Cup.A video posted on the official Instagram handle of the Portugal team showed Ronaldo waving at his fans. He even screamed in joy. The energy from both Ronaldo and the crowd was simply next level.
Check out the video here
The craze for the FIFA World Cup in Toronto has been on full display. Fans wearing Portugal jerseys gathered for hours just to catch a glimpse of him, cheering and even running alongside the team bus as it headed to the stadium last evening.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo also etched his name into the history books by becoming the oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout match during Portugal's 2-1 victory over Croatia.
The football legend reached the milestone at the age of 41 years and 147 days, surpassing the previous record for the oldest goalscorer in a World Cup knockout fixture, held by Lionel Messi (39).
Ronaldo scored from the penalty spot in the 67th minute after a VAR review awarded Portugal a spot-kick, cancelling out Ivan Perisic's opener for Croatia and bringing Roberto Martinez's side level.The legendary footballer was also named Player of the Match for his superb performance throughout the match.
Croatia had taken the lead through Ivan Perisic, who became the country's all-time leading World Cup scorer, before Cristiano Ronaldo equalised from the penalty spot after a VAR review. Croatia had two goals ruled out for offside, including a late equaliser deep into stoppage time, as Portugal held on to set up a Round of 16 clash against Spain.
The match also marked the end of Luka Modric's potential World Cup career.
Now, Ronaldo and company will take on Spain, who won earlier Thursday 3-0 against Austria, in the Round of 16 on July 6.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Watching Ronaldo wave to the crowd in Toronto gives me chills! 🐐 The energy in that video is incredible. But honestly, I feel for Modric – what a legend he is too. Both players have given so much to football. Hope India can host a World Cup someday and create moments like this for our fans!
Great win for Portugal, but let's be real – that penalty was soft. VAR saved them again. Croatia deserved at least a draw. Still, Ronaldo's longevity is unmatched. Beating Messi's record at 41? That's something special. Will be a tough match against Spain though.
My son and I were watching this match at 3 AM here in Mumbai! Worth every minute of lost sleep. Ronaldo's passion is infectious – screaming from that balcony like a fan himself! 🇵🇹🇵🇹 This is why football is the world's game. India needs to invest more in grass roots to produce such icons.
As a Canadian who moved here from India, seeing Toronto erupt for Ronaldo is amazing. The Portuguese community here is huge. That balcony moment will be replayed forever. Now bring on Spain! Viva Portugal! 🔥⚽
I'm not even a football fan usually, but this story caught my eye. Ronaldo seems like such a humble superstar – coming out to greet fans after a win? That's real leadership. Also, 41 years old and playing at this level? Indian cricket could learn something about fitness and dedication from him!
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