Emotional Ronaldo dons No. 21 as Portugal pays tribute to late Diogo Jota after 2-1 victory over Croatia

Cristiano Ronaldo was visibly emotional following Portugal's 2-1 victory over Croatia in the 2026 World Cup knockout stage on Thursday in Toronto, Canada. The veteran Portuguese striker also led a moving tribute to the late Diogo Jota as he donned the No. 21, honouring his former teammate.

Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, tragically lost their lives in a car accident in Spain on June 3 last year, just days after the Liverpool forward had married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso.

Ronaldo honours Jota on latter's first death anniversary

Following Portugal's stellar comeback victory over Croatia, Ronaldo was seen wearing the No. 21 shirt after the final whistle. He embraced the Croatian players while also acknowledging the fans' support at the BMO Field.

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The veteran striker was fighting back tears as he paid tribute to Jota. Notably, the Portugal-Croatia match coincided with the first death anniversary of the late Liverpool forward, and Ronaldo led the post-match tribute in honour of his legacy.

Portugal reaches World Cup Round of 16

Portugal advanced to the round of 16 after producing a commendable comeback performance against Croatia at the BMO Field in Toronto. After Ivan Perisic put the Croatian side ahead by scoring in the 53rd minute, Ronaldo levelled the score from the spot after a VAR review awarded them a penalty. Just three minutes ago, the veteran forward had netted a goal, but it was ruled offside.

Substitute striker Goncalo Ramos headed home in stoppage time after a fine assist from Rafael Leao to spark Portugal’s comeback. Moments later, Croatia’s Josko Gvardiol appeared to equalise, but a VAR review ruled the goal offside.

Portugal officially advanced to the Round of 16 stage and will face Spain at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday, July 7, at 12:30 PM IST.