Ronaldo vs. Modrić: World Cup clash pits former Real Madrid teammates against each other

2026 World Cup Key News

(Central News Agency Los Angeles, July 2nd, Foreign News) In the World Cup Round of 32 knockout stage, Spain and Portugal will fight to advance to the Round of 16 today. If both teams succeed, they will face each other in the next round. Portugal will play Croatia today, and the matchup between former Real Madrid teammates Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić is full of talking points.

According to Agence France-Presse, Spain will face Austria in Los Angeles today. The "Matadors," considered favorites to win the championship, have not had the start they expected in this tournament. After a surprising 0-0 draw with Cape Verde from West Africa, they secured a 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia, but then struggled to a narrow 1-0 win against Uruguay.

However, Spanish head coach Luis de la Fuente stated that the team's condition is gradually improving and they will reach their desired state and win the championship.

De la Fuente said on the 1st: "This team has always broken records and overcome adversity; we are determined to keep moving forward."

In the match between Portugal and Croatia, Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo and Croatian veteran Luka Modrić, former Real Madrid teammates, may have the opportunity to face each other directly. For both players, this could be their last World Cup appearance.

The winner of the Portugal-Croatia match will face the winner of the Spain-Austria match in the Round of 16. (Intern Editor: Wang Bojie / Editor: Chen Yiwei) 0702115

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