Pakistan, July 3 -- Portugal and Spain secured their places in the FIFA World Cup last 16 after producing contrasting victories, setting up a highly anticipated knockout meeting on Monday. Portugal survived a dramatic contest to defeat Croatia 2-1, while Spain delivered a dominant performance to comfortably beat Austria 3-0. The two European heavyweights will now battle for a place in the quarter-finals.

Portugal needed a late winner to overcome Croatia after Cristiano Ronaldo equalised from the penalty spot in the 68th minute, becoming the oldest player to score in a World Cup knockout match. Croatia had earlier taken the lead through Ivan Perisic before substitute Goncalo Ramos headed home the decisive goal deep into stoppage time. A d...