Toronto [Canada], July 3 (ANI): Fans of the Portugal national football team, particularly those of Cristiano Ronaldo, were treated to a memorable sight in Toronto on Thursday evening as the football icon, accompanied by his teammates, stepped onto the hotel balcony to greet the sea of supporters gathered following the thrilling victory over Croatia in the ongoing FIFA World Cup.
A video posted on the official Instagram handle of the Portugal team showed Ronaldo waving at his fans. He even screamed in joy. The energy from both Ronaldo and the crowd was simply next level.
The craze for the FIFA World Cup in Toronto has been on full display. Fans wearing Portugal jerseys gathered for hours just to catch a glimpse of him, cheering and even running alongside the team bus as it headed to the stadium last evening.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo also etched his name into the history books by becoming the oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout match during Portugal's 2-1 victory over Croatia.
The football legend reached the milestone at the age of 41 years and 147 days, surpassing the previous record for the oldest goalscorer in a World Cup knockout fixture, held by Lionel Messi (39).
Ronaldo scored from the penalty spot in the 67th minute after a VAR review awarded Portugal a spot-kick, cancelling out Ivan Perisic's opener for Croatia and bringing Roberto Martinez's side level.The legendary footballer was also named Player of the Match for his superb performance throughout the match.
Croatia had taken the lead through Ivan Perisic, who became the country's all-time leading World Cup scorer, before Cristiano Ronaldo equalised from the penalty spot after a VAR review. Croatia had two goals ruled out for offside, including a late equaliser deep into stoppage time, as Portugal held on to set up a Round of 16 clash against Spain.
The match also marked the end of Luka Modric's potential World Cup career.
Now, Ronaldo and company will take on Spain, who won earlier Thursday 3-0 against Austria, in the Round of 16 on July 6. (ANI)
