Ronaldo or Modrić: Whose World Cup Journey Ends in Toronto?
Ronaldo or Modrić: Whose World Cup Journey Ends in Toronto?
Published: July 1, 2026
Toronto will bid farewell to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ on Thursday, but the city may also witness the end of one of football's greatest international careers.
For years, every major tournament featuring Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić has been accompanied by the same question: Is this their last dance? This time, that question carries more weight than ever.
The highly anticipated FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash between Portugal and Croatia at Toronto Stadium could mark the final World Cup appearance for one of two living legends. While one will continue chasing football's greatest prize, the other's unforgettable World Cup journey will come to an end.
A City Ready for History
The excitement surrounding the match has completely taken over Toronto.
The streets are filled with Portugal and Croatia jerseys, while Ronaldo and Modrić shirts are everywhere. The atmosphere has been electric throughout Canada Day celebrations, and thousands of supporters have welcomed both teams with incredible passion.
Portuguese fans even brought one of Toronto's major highways to a temporary standstill as they waited to catch a glimpse of their national team's bus.
This is far more than just another knockout match—it's a celebration of two football icons whose careers have inspired an entire generation.
No Clear Favorite
Portugal has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency throughout the tournament.
Croatia, meanwhile, recovered well after England exposed their defensive weaknesses in the opening match and has grown stronger with every performance.
With both teams possessing experience, quality, and world-class leadership, predicting a winner is nearly impossible.
One certainty remains: Toronto Stadium will produce one of the most unforgettable atmospheres of the tournament.
Martinez: "Age Is Just a Number"
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez dismissed any concerns about the age of his captain.
"We're talking about players who stand above public opinion. They are special because of their longevity in football. Luka Modrić is over 40 years old and continues to perform at the highest level. The same applies to our captain. For anyone who talks about age—age is just a number."
Livaković: "We'll Fight for Luka"
Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livaković paid tribute to both legends while making it clear where his loyalties lie.
"They are two giants of football who have left an incredible legacy. But my teammates and I will do everything possible to make sure Luka continues his journey."
Brothers in Madrid, Rivals in Toronto
Few football partnerships have enjoyed as much success as Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić during their years together at Real Madrid.
Between 2012 and 2018, they won multiple UEFA Champions League titles, league championships, and numerous individual honors while building a friendship based on mutual respect.
Ronaldo once described watching Modrić play as "always a pleasure," while the Croatian midfielder has often called Ronaldo "an incredible person with a huge heart."
Now, for perhaps the final time on football's biggest stage, they will stand on opposite sides.
The End of an Era
Modrić, who turns 41 in September, has admitted he knows he has entered the final chapter of his international career.
Ronaldo has already confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the last World Cup of his legendary career.
When the final whistle blows in Toronto, one icon will continue dreaming of lifting football's greatest trophy.
The other will close the curtain on one of the most extraordinary World Cup journeys the sport has ever witnessed.
Regardless of the result, football will be saying goodbye to a legend.