Croatia set new World Cup ticket price record

On Tuesday, July 2 2026, Croatia prepared for the round of 16 clash with Portugal in Toronto, with the average price of the cheapest ticket reaching $3,225 – the highest ever for the knockout stage. Ticketdate data, reported by DW, show prices doubled after Portugal’s draw with Colombia, confirming this duel. FIFA introduced dynamic pricing this year, and demand exploded.

What does the Ronaldo‑Modrić showdown mean for Croatia?

In Toronto, Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić will meet again, this time as captains of their national sides. The duo spent six seasons together at Real Madrid, winning four Champions Leagues. Ronaldo said in 2018: “It’s an honor to have shared so many moments with you.” Modrić was named world player of the year that same year, with Ronaldo finishing second. Their first senior encounter ended with Portugal’s win in the Euro 2016 round of 16, and Modrić led Croatia to a silver medal at the 2018 World Cup.

Modrić becomes oldest World Cup assist maker

German media note that Modrić “plays like a youngster.” After delivering a corner that produced the winning goal, Croatia secured the match, making Modrić the oldest player ever to register an assist at a World Cup. Petar Sučić praised him: “He plays as if he’s 20. He was amazing. He’s our leader and our best player. He can play as long as he wants.”

Current form and upcoming challenges

Last result: Portugal 2‑1 Croatia (2026‑07‑02). In the last five games Croatia posted 3 wins, 0 draws and 2 losses (LLWWW, most recent first), meaning they lost the last two matches. Their next fixture is against Czechia (away, 2026‑09‑26), fourth in the group. Coach Roberto Martínez must decide whether to tweak tactics after two consecutive defeats and how to harness Modrić’s experience and the squad’s motivation for the road ahead.

What to expect from the Toronto match?

With a record ticket price, the atmosphere is expected to be electric. Ronaldo faces criticism for inconsistent form, while Modrić continues to prove he’s still at the top. Both captains are motivated – Ronaldo wants to confirm he’s still the best, and Modrić aims to lead Croatia back to the summit. A tactical battle between Martínez’s system and Félix’s Portuguese side is likely, and the result will probably shape the path to the quarter‑finals.

In short, Croatia heads to Toronto with high expectations, aware that every second on the pitch matters and that the record ticket price adds extra pressure. Now is the time to show what being “Vatreni” means on the world stage.