Ivana Knoll, the influencer and DJ known as the World Cup's 'sexiest fan,' has predicted that Croatia will defeat Portugal in their Round of 32 match at Toronto Stadium on Thursday. The temperature is expected to reach 35°C, but Knoll says the atmosphere will be even hotter as she returns to support her home country.
Knoll's return to Toronto
Knoll, who performs under the name Knolldoll, has attended every match of the 2026 World Cup so far, cheering for Croatia while turning heads with her bold outfits. She was in Toronto last week for Croatia's group-stage finale against Panama, a 1-0 victory that secured advancement to the knockout stage. She also joined a parade of Croatian fans estimated at more than 10,000 people marching to the Exhibition Grounds.
“It’s nice to have hot weather this time,” Knoll told the Toronto Sun. “Last time I was here it was cold, so it’s nice this time.”
Calling out Cristiano Ronaldo
After Croatia beat Ghana 2-1 in Philadelphia, Knoll took to Instagram to challenge Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. In a post captioned “Croatia 2:1 just like I predicted. Lucky KRAVATA is coming to Toronto. Cristiano Ronaldo, get ready for us!!!”, she showed a clip from the game. Despite being on the opposing team, Knoll praised Ronaldo as “the best player in the world” and “the best player ever in history,” adding, “There’s nobody close. I don’t care what people think.”
Knoll's prediction for the match
From her hotel room overlooking Toronto Stadium, Knoll offered her prediction for the Round of 32 matchup. “I’m in front of the stadium in Toronto where Croatia and Portugal are playing,” she said, “and I can’t wait for us to win!” She noted that heavy favorites Germany and Netherlands had already been eliminated in the knockout phase, posting on Instagram Stories, “Following that logic, Portugal will soon be joining them.”
When pressed for a scoreline, Knoll was hesitant. “I’m scared of penalties,” she admitted, but later added, “If we can take it to penalties, I think we can win,” citing Croatia's strong history in shootouts.
Factors in Croatia's favor
Croatia finished the group stage with six points, one more than Portugal's five, and already has experience playing in Toronto after defeating Panama at the same venue. Knoll's presence could also provide a boost. After Croatia's previous game in Toronto, she performed at an after-party at rooftop club Lavelle on King Street, but this time she has no big post-match plans. “Just the game,” she said. “A couple of days of relaxing for now.”
If Croatia continues to advance, Knoll plans to follow the team. “Yes, of course!” she said. Fans unable to attend the match can watch at Croatia House at the Toronto Event Centre, which will host a pre-game event and watch party.
