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When it all finally came to an end, Luka Modric found himself wrapped in the embrace of Cristiano Ronaldo — a slight figure dwarfed by his much taller former Real Madrid teammate. It was a moment that perfectly captured the improbability of Modric’s story — a man of modest stature from a small nation who, through sheer determination and skill, came remarkably close to conquering world football.

Modric’s World Cup journey has been one of football’s great tales. Its closing chapter was cruel. Croatia erupted in joy when it seemed Josko Gvardiol had netted a dramatic 103rd-minute equaliser against Portugal. Once again, the kings of extra time looked ready to extend the fight. But VAR intervened — and Croatia’s dream ended. Portugal advanced, and Modric’s World Cup career concluded — decorated with silver and bronze medals, the Golden Ball and the Bronze Ball, and likely a place among the tournament’s all-time greats.

“I am sorry it ended this way with a defeat,” admitted Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic. Realistically, it was always going to conclude in heartbreak. Croatia are notoriously tough to beat when it matters most, but they were never favourites to win this edition. Still, the nature of their exit was both gallant and painful. If there was a dignified way to bow out, this was it — controversial decisions notwithstanding. Modric gave everything, the tireless maestro who refused to yield.

“Luka played especially well in the second half and was once again one of our key players,” Dalic added. “He demonstrated his quality, his character, and, of course, he led Croatia right to the very end.” As epitaphs go, being remembered as the man who led his nation till the final whistle is not a bad one.

It was the close of at least one era, perhaps several. That classic contest in Canada marked Modric’s final World Cup appearance; he will be 44 by the time the tournament returns in 2030. Whether his 202nd international cap was his last remains uncertain. Dalic hinted at a generational transition, saying, “The end of an era.” He declined to confirm whether his own nine-year tenure would end, but he acknowledged that it was time for younger players to gain experience, mentioning Modric, Mateo Kovacic, and the 37-year-old Ivan Perisic.

Few have amassed more experience than Modric. He concluded his World Cup journey level with Paolo Maldini — another legend who reached both a final and a semi-final — with 23 World Cup appearances. Only four players have featured more, Ronaldo among them.

At times, this World Cup seemed a step too far for ageing stars — and early on, Modric’s critics might have agreed. His tournament began poorly, conceding a penalty and being substituted before the hour mark against England. Yet he ended on a high. While Ronaldo’s Portugal advanced further, on the day, Modric outlasted the Portuguese captain, staying on the pitch for around 110 minutes, including stoppage time.

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez was effusive in his praise. “I would love to keep that performance,” he said. “His longevity, his intelligence — he plays with the energy of a young man. Modric is a beautiful example of that.”

His brilliance was evident throughout — a master of footballing chess. At times in the first half, he dropped so deep he was almost a third centre-back. Yet moments later, spotting a gap, he surged forward, briefly becoming Croatia’s most advanced player. He didn’t reach the long ball, but he saw the opportunity before anyone else.

He saw less of the ball than in years past — perhaps a sign that the baton among the pass-masters has shifted to Portugal’s Joao Neves and Vitinha. But Modric still chose his moments wisely, navigating the match with his trademark intelligence and composure.

His commitment never wavered. In the second half, Rafael Leao burst down Portugal’s left flank at full speed, launching an attack. Just inside the line, Modric was sprinting to catch him — his 40-year-old legs no match for Leao’s pace, yet faster than anyone expected. He remains the little man with an enormous heart.

And with monumental achievements to match. After the final whistle, Ronaldo paid tribute to his old Real Madrid colleague: “He’s still a legend of football. I told him many times, congratulations for everything, and I wish you all the best for the next few years of your career.”

Modric turns 41 in September. With 967 club appearances and 202 for Croatia, he has earned every right to decide when to step away. The hints at retirement are stronger than ever, though nothing is yet confirmed. Even Modric cannot defy time forever. But his legacy is secure. “He will remain part of football’s folklore forever,” said Martinez.

Since the Golden Ball was introduced in 1982, only Diego Maradona, the Brazilian Ronaldo, and Lionel Messi have finished in the top three twice. Croatia’s greatest ever player took his small nation further than logic suggested possible — and did it again. Dalic spoke of “those who created miracles twice.” Above all, Modric was Croatia’s miracle man. This time, there were no more miracles — but with him leading the way, there was always hope there might be one more.