Manchester City defender Joško Gvardiol scored a second-half equalizer to secure a 1-1 draw for Croatia against Portugal in Split. The result sends Croatia into the Nations League quarterfinals as runners-up in Group A1.

The Croatian city of Split welcomed a Portugal side already through to the quarters as group leaders. Missing big names like Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes, the visitors still looked formidable.

Portugal struck first in the 33rd minute through João Félix, who netted his first goal of the tournament. The former Atlético Madrid and Barcelona forward latched onto a long ball from Vitinha, powered toward goal, and blasted it home with authority.

The goal jolted Croatia into action, and they nearly leveled immediately when Andrej Kramarić hit the post—a warning shot from Luka Modrić’s side just before halftime.

After the break, Croatia came out swinging and found their breakthrough in the 66th minute. Joško Gvardiol tapped in at the far post after a pinpoint cross from Jakic. From there, the home team smelled blood, putting Portugal’s defense under intense pressure.

In the final 15 minutes, Croatia nearly snatched a winner. First, Sucic forced a solid save from José Sá, and moments later, Budimir smashed a rebound off the crossbar.

Despite the draw, Portugal topped Group A1 with 14 points (4 wins, 2 draws), while Croatia claimed the second spot with 8 points (2 wins, 2 draws, 2 losses), advancing to the quarterfinals.