Luka Modric plays final World Cup match as Croatia lose to Portugal | OneFootball

Luka Modric played his final World Cup match as Croatia were beaten 1-2 by Portugal in the round of 32 at Toronto Stadium on Thursday.

According to L'Équipe, in stifling Toronto heat the 2018 Ballon d'Or set the tempo with trademark elegance, though he was relatively quiet and Mateo Kovacic's work rate eased Croatia. Deep into stoppage time, Josko Gvardiol's effort was ruled out by VAR for a tight offside in the 90+13.

At full time, the AC Milan midfielder stood motionless for a few seconds, a scene that felt like the end under the chequered flag after 202 caps and 29 goals, a 2018 World Cup final and third place four years later.

Cristiano Ronaldo sought him out and they shared a long embrace, echoing their pre-match coin toss. He later called Modric a legend, recalled their Real Madrid years and wished him the best, hoping he keeps playing.

Inside a muted Croatia dressing room, Martin Baturina said Modric said nothing and that everyone stayed silent. He felt Modric embodies everything for them, is captain and best player, and that his display again showed he could easily continue.

Team-mate Petar Sucic called him their leader and the greatest Croatian player, stressing that whatever he decides he will be loved all the same. In the mixed zone, long after the final whistle, Modric spoke only about the team and said it was not the time to discuss his future, adding that clarity would come soon.

Source: L'Équipe