Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic launched a scathing attack on the match officials following his side’s heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Portugal in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32, describing the refereeing as “very bad” after a series of controversial VAR interventions.
The contest was packed with drama as Portugal overturned an early deficit. Cristiano Ronaldo levelled the scores from the penalty spot after a VAR review before Goncalo Ramos headed home a stoppage-time winner to send the Portuguese into the Round of 16. Croatia’s hopes of forcing extra time were dashed when a last-gasp equaliser was ruled out for offside following another lengthy VAR check.
Reacting after the match, Dalic expressed frustration over several decisions, insisting Croatia deserved more favourable calls throughout the game. However, the veteran coach acknowledged that his team failed to perform at its best, particularly in the opening half, and said the refereeing alone could not be blamed for the defeat.
The defeat also likely marked the end of Luka Modric’s illustrious World Cup journey. The 40-year-old captain, who guided Croatia to the 2018 final and a third-place finish in 2022, exited the tournament without adding another medal to his remarkable international career. Despite the disappointment, Dalic expressed confidence in the next generation of Croatian players and said the team has a bright future ahead.
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