SOCCER: Portugal manager Martinez praises referee after World Cup win over Croatia

TORONTO — Portugal coach Roberto Martinez said his side deserved its dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 on Thursday, praising the match officials for making the correct calls in a thrilling contest.

Portugal advanced to the Round of 16 after coming from behind. Cristiano Ronaldo equalized from the penalty spot after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review overturned the initial decision, while Goncalo Ramos scored a stoppage-time header to seal the win.

Croatia appeared to have forced extra time with a late equalizer, but the goal was disallowed for offside following another VAR review. The decision sparked frustration among Croatian supporters, who threw debris onto the field at Toronto Stadium.

Martinez defended the officiating, saying the key decisions were accurate.

"There were no bad decisions. Today we were fortunate," Martinez said. "The chip ball showed that it was offside, and the penalty was also clear. I understand the work of (Croatia coach Zlatko) Dalic with this team, and it is a shame that there was only one winner today."

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic, however, criticized the officiating, saying he was disappointed by what he described as "bad refereeing."

Portugal will next face Spain in the Round of 16 in Dallas, with Martinez expecting another high-level encounter between two European powerhouses.

"We respect the quality of Spain. I think it is going to be a fantastic match. It is going to be the European game of this World Cup," he said.

Martinez also reflected on the pressure of coaching in knockout matches, saying experience has taught him to stay composed during tense moments.

"I have lost my hair through this, but I think it is worth it," he joked. -Divya Rajagopal in Toronto; Editing by Peter Rutherford/Reuters