Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Luka Modrić captaincy may have reached its World Cup farewell in Toronto, where Croatia’s 2-1 Round of 32 defeat to Portugal closed another emotional chapter for one of football’s great midfield leaders.
At 40, Modrić led Croatia through what is widely expected to be his final World Cup, a tournament that ended in controversy after a late Croatian equaliser was ruled out by VAR. Portugal advanced to face Spain, while Croatia were left with anger, pride and the heavy feeling of an era nearing its end.
For more on the match itself, read Portugal vs Croatia: Ronaldo And Modric Headline World Cup Knockout Test, while official tournament details are available through the FIFA World Cup 2026 page.
Croatia’s Calmest Leader
Modrić’s captaincy has never been about shouting for attention. It has been built on touch, timing, passing control and the ability to keep Croatia believing even when matches turn chaotic.
That is why this exit feels so heavy. Croatia have spent years playing above their size as a football nation, and Modrić has been the player who made their midfield feel brave against anyone.
Achievements That Changed Croatia
Modrić captained Croatia to the 2018 FIFA World Cup final and later helped them finish third at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He also won the Bronze Ball in 2022 after guiding Croatia to another semi-final run.
His club career is just as decorated. With Real Madrid, Modrić won six UEFA Champions League titles, four Spanish league titles and the 2018 Ballon d’Or, along with The Best FIFA Men’s Player award and UEFA Men’s Player of the Year.
A Farewell Without Closure
Portugal’s late winner from Gonçalo Ramos and Croatia’s disallowed goal meant Modrić’s possible last World Cup minutes came with frustration rather than a clean goodbye.
Still, his legacy does not depend on one VAR decision. Modrić leaves the World Cup stage as Croatia’s defining captain, the player who turned a talented generation into a feared tournament team.
