Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric Make History at 2026 FIFA World Cup

Historic Moments for Ronaldo and Modric

On June 17, during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric etched their names in history as they played pivotal roles in their teams' matches. Portugal faced DR Congo in Houston, while Croatia took on England in Arlington. Both legendary players, who previously played together at Real Madrid and have won the Ballon d'Or, captained their respective sides. Unfortunately, the outcomes were disappointing; Portugal managed only a 1-1 draw, and Croatia suffered a 4-2 defeat. Ronaldo made history by becoming the oldest outfield player to start a match in World Cup history, while Modric followed closely behind as the second oldest. Ronaldo played the entire match but did not score, missing the chance to achieve a record-breaking goal. Modric was substituted in the 57th minute, with Mateo Kovacic taking his place.

Ronaldo and Modric's Remarkable Achievement

Both players made history as the first outfield players in the 96-year history of the FIFA World Cup to start a match after turning 40. Ronaldo now holds the record, with Modric in second place. This record was previously held by Canadian midfielder Atiba Hutchinson, who achieved it during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

In the grand scheme of FIFA World Cup history, Ronaldo and Modric rank as the second and third oldest outfield players, following Cameroonian striker Roger Milla, who was 42 years and 39 days old during the 1994 World Cup. However, Milla did not start any matches that year, coming on as a substitute. He also holds the record for the oldest goalscorer in World Cup history, a record that remains unbroken unless an extraordinary event occurs, such as Scotland's goalkeeper Craig Gordon scoring a goal. When including goalkeepers, Ronaldo is the fourth oldest player to participate in the World Cup, while Modric ranks seventh.