Need to knowCristiano Ronaldo and Portugal's dream of winning their first-ever World Cup is still alive after a dramatic and controversial last 32 win over Croatia on Friday13:01, 03 Jul 2026Portugal snuck through to the last 16 thanks after an intervention from 'Snicko' (Image: Getty Images)Below is everything you need to know about 'Snicko' and how it has saved Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup dream...Croatia were denied a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser against Portugal at the World Cup due to the intervention of video assistant referee (VAR) technology. Josko Gvardiol appeared to level the match at 2-2 in the 13th minute of added time, which would have sent the Round of 32 clash into extra time.The critical VAR review centred on whether Croatia's Igor Matanovic made contact with the ball during the build-up while in an offside position. While visual evidence from video replays appeared inconclusive, the officials utilised audio-sensor technology to make a definitive ruling.The referee was shown a distinct spike on "Snicko" technology, confirming contact had occurred and forcing the goal to be disallowed. Originating in cricket to determine if a ball has struck a bat, this soundwave-detecting technology has now been adapted for top-tier football tournaments.The tournament's official Adidas Trionda match ball features an internal chip that captures real-time touch data. This sensor feeds precise contact information directly to the VAR hub, allowing officials to make highly accurate offside decisions.Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic expressed deep frustration after the match, criticising the refereeing performance during the defeat. He argued that the hyper-precise technology and prolonged video reviews ultimately kill the genuine emotion and joy of football.In contrast, Portugal boss Roberto Martinez defended the implementation of the sensor data to decide such critical match outcomes. He stated that the automated chip system removed luck from the situation, resulting in an indisputably clear and correct decision.Following the dramatic and technologically altered conclusion to the match, Portugal secured their spot in the next stage of the tournament. The team will advance to face their Iberian neighbors, Spain, in the highly anticipated Round of 16.