Milan connection as Leão sets up Ramos for Portugal's late winner vs Croatia
Quick summary
Rafael Leão assisted Gonçalo Ramos for Portugal's late winning goal against Croatia in an international match, highlighting their attacking chemistry with a notable Milan connection.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceNew Milan signing Gonçalo Ramos scored a late winner for Portugal against Croatia, heading in Rafael Leao’s cross.
Portugal secured a 2-1 win over Croatia in the World Cup Round of 32 on Thursday night.
Former Inter star Ivan Perisic gave Croatia the lead at minute 53, but the opener was cancelled out by another former Serie A star, Cristiano Ronaldo, as the ex-Juventus ace converted a penalty kick in the 68th minute.
Gonçalo Ramos sent Portugal to the next round with a towering header in the stoppages, making the most of a Rafael Leao cross from the left.
Earlier this week, Milan had confirmed Ramos’ move from PSG , making him their first summer signing.
Leao remains under contract with Milan until 2028, but according to several reports in Italy, the Rossoneri will listen to offers of at least €60m for their winger this summer.
TORONTO, ONTARIO – JULY 02: Gonçalo Ramos #9 of Portugal scores his team’s second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match between Portugal and Croatia at Toronto Stadium on July 02, 2026, in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images) Video: Gonçalo Ramos’ late winner for Portugal 𝙂𝙤𝙣𝙘̧𝙖𝙡𝙤 𝙍𝙖𝙢𝙤𝙨 spinge il Portogallo agli ottavi #PortogalloCroazia #FIFAWorldCup #DAZN pic.twitter.com/HbFTCLlwdI
— DAZN Italia (@DAZN_IT) July 3, 2026
Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup dream is still alive!
Gonçalo Ramos’ late header secured Portugal’s place in the Round of 16 pic.twitter.com/wNA0SgSYsn
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) July 3, 2026
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What happened
Portugal secured a late victory over Croatia thanks to a goal from Gonçalo Ramos, set up by AC Milan forward Rafael Leão. The link-up between the two Portuguese attackers proved decisive in the final stages of the match. The 'Milan connection' in the headline refers to Leão's role as Milan's talismanic forward. The result will be a confidence boost for both players heading back to their respective club duties, though Ramos's club future remains a talking point.
Chance analysis
Leão continues to demonstrate his creative influence for Portugal, reinforcing his status as a key attacking outlet beyond his AC Milan form. Ramos scoring late adds intrigue around his next club move after his PSG loan spell. For Milan, Leão's strong international displays bode well for his club form, while Croatia's late concession raises defensive questions ahead of upcoming fixtures.
Positive form signal for Leão ahead of Milan's next fixture; minimal direct impact on club match predictions but reinforces attacking threat.
Leão's creative output for Portugal signals strong current form, boosting his expected contribution for AC Milan in upcoming matches.