CRISTIANO RONALDO had an emotional reunion with legendary former Real Madrid team-mate Luka Modric after Portugal’s clash with Croatia at the World Cup.
Ronaldo, 41, and co punched their ticket to the last 16 after a dramatic 2-1 victory on Thursday at the BMO Field in Canada.
CR7, who scored Portugal’s opener from the penalty spot to mark his first ever goal in the World Cup knockouts, linked up with Modric, 40, at full-time.
AC Milan star Modric was visibly distraught after an incredible VAR intervention denied the Croatians a shot at extra-time in a thrilling finale to what appears to be the midfielder’s last World Cup game.
And Manchester United legend Ronaldo rushed to Modric’s side, having spent six trophy-laden years together in Madrid.
The Al-Nassr superstar revealed he comforted Modric and sang his praises.
Ronaldo said: “I played with him for so many years, we are nearly the same age.
“He’s a legend of football because he still plays very well and high quality.
“I said to him so many times congratulations for everything, I love to see you again, I wish you all the best for the next years of your career.”
Ronaldo and Modric dominated the world stage during their time together at Real.
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The Premier League greats won four Champions League trophies as well as LaLiga and Copa del Rey.
Ronaldo will now look to win the one major honour that has been eluding him throughout his glittering 24-year career.
Portugal are set for a crunch clash with reigning European champions Spain on Monday at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas for a place in the quarter-finals.
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IT’S A KNOCKOUT
The knockout stages of the World Cup are hotting up.
England believe football might finally be coming home after 60 years of hurt, with Harry Kane on fire.
But the likes of France, Spain, Brazil and Argentina are all serious contenders to go all the way.
Heavyweights Germany and the Netherlands have both been knocked out on penalties in the Round of 32.
