2026 World Cup: Portugal vs. Croatia—Probable Lineups and Weather Alert

Portugal and Croatia will face off at 1 a.m. (Italian time) in Toronto in one of the most anticipated Round of 16 matches of the 2026 World Cup. An orange alert has been issued in Canada due to the heat and thunderstorms that may occur during the match: temperatures could reach 35 degrees, and there is a risk of severe weather. The winner will face the victor of the match between Spain and Austria.

Portugal has been a disappointment so far: in Group K, they finished second behind Colombia, drawing with both the South Americans and the Congo and winning only against Cannavaro’s Uzbekistan. Cristiano Ronaldo is facing criticism but will start as a regular, with Pedro Neto, Bruno Fernandes, and João Félix behind him. In midfield are João Neves and Vitinha.

Croatia finished second in Group L, losing only their opening match against England but winning their next two matches against Panama and Ghana. Modrić will once again be the playmaker for the checkered-shirted team, with Sučić and Kovačić alongside him. The attacking trio will consist of Vlašić, Budimir, and Baturina.

Portugal vs. Croatia: Probable Lineups
PORTUGAL (4-2-3-1): Diogo Costa; Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes; Joao Neves, Vitinha; Pedro Neto, Bruno Fernandes, Joao Felix; Cristiano Ronaldo.
CROATIA (4-3-3): Livakovic; Stanisic, Sutalo, Pongracic, Perisic; Sucic, Modric, Kovacic; Vlasic, Budimir, Baturina.