In a closely contested friendly match in preparation for UEFA Euro 2024 in Germany, Portugal faced Croatia and suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat. The Croatian team took an early lead with a Luka Modrić penalty in the 8th minute, but Portugal responded strongly at the start of the second half with a goal from Diogo Jota in the 48th minute. However, Croatia sealed the win with a goal from Ante Budimir in the 56th minute. Both teams showcased their talents with Croatia edging the match with a display of clinical finishing.

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Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric share a heart-touching moment after Portugal vs Croatia

At the Centro Desportivo Nacional do Jamor Stadium, Portugal and Croatia played a friendly match on June 8 that Croatia won 2-1. Though they lost, Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric had a memorable post-match conversation.

Ronaldo skipped that game. With a penalty converted by Luka Modric in the eighth minute, Croatia led early. Through Diogo Jota, Portugal was able to draw the score even in the 48th minute. But when Ante Budimir scored in the 56th minute, Croatia prevailed.

Once the whistle blew, Real Madrid teammates Ronaldo and Modric had a momentous reunion on the pitch.

Expected to play in Euro 2024 are Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric. Group F opponents for Ronaldo's Portugal include Turkey, Georgia, and Czechia. Portugal wants to win their second European Championship; they won it in 2016.

For Croatia, Luka Modric's only chance to win a major championship may be at Euro 2024. Croatia are drawn into Group B they call it the Group of death, where they will play Italy, Spain and Albania.

Portugal will engage in their final friendly match just before commencing their 2024 campaign against Ireland on Wednesday, June 12 at 12:15 am. This match will serve as a crucial test for the Portuguese squad as they fine-tune their strategies and formations. Meanwhile, Croatia is set to kick off their UEFA Euro 2024 campaign on Saturday, June 15 at 9:30 pm against Spain. The Croatian team will be aiming to make a strong start in the tournament and showcase their skills against one of the formidable contenders, Spain, in this highly anticipated matchup.