Two of the greatest footballers ever produced are about to collide in what might be the last World Cup match of their careers. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal will face Luka Modric’s Croatia on July 3, 2026, in Toronto, in a Round of 32 clash that doubles as a farewell tour for two athletes who have spent decades defying Father Time.
Both men are 41 years old. This will be the first World Cup knockout stage match in history to feature two outfield players over the age of 40.
A historic fixture with no historical precedent
Ronaldo has already cemented himself as the first player to score in six different World Cups. Modric dragged Croatia to the 2018 final almost single-handedly and won the Golden Ball for his efforts. Their careers at Real Madrid overlapped for years, during which they won four UEFA Champions League titles together.
The 2026 tournament features a record number of players aged 40 and above.
