Modric vs Ronaldo: Portugal vs Croatia icons face final World Cup stand
Two living legends collide as Portugal and Croatia meet in a 2026 World Cup Group B opener that could mark the end of Modric and Ronaldo’s tournament careers.
Portugal and Croatia will square off in the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener on June 12, 2026, in a Group B clash that doubles as a potential farewell stage for two footballing icons. Luka Modric, 38, and Cristiano Ronaldo, 39, both carry the weight of legacy into the match—one as Croatia’s midfield maestro, the other as Portugal’s all-time leading scorer. ” The encounter is scheduled for MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, at 20:00 ET, marking the first time the nations meet in a World Cup since their 2016 European Championship Round of 16 duel, a 1-0 Portugal victory.
