New Delhi: Cristiano Ronaldo turned back the clock with a stunning performance as Portugal beat Uzbekistan 5-0 in the 2026 World Cup. The 41-year-old captain scored twice to help his side register their first win of this World Cup after a draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo.With his brace, Ronaldo made history by becoming the first player to score in six FIFA World Cups from 2006 to 2026. He also became Portugal’s top scorer in World Cup history with 10 goals, surpassing Eusebio’s 9 goals. The achievement also makes him the youngest and oldest World Cup scorer for his country, alongside Lionel Messi and Michael Laudrup.In another record, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have striking statistical symmetrythe two stars recorded the same 20 years and six days gap between their first and latest Championship goals.Portugal entered the match under pressure after losing 1-1 to the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening match. Against Uzbekistan, however, they looked sharper and more confident. Nuno Mendes and Rafael Leao scored as Ronaldo scored twice, while an own goal from Uzbek goalkeeper Abdulvohid Nematov completed the rout.The resounding victory not only revived Portugal’s World Cup campaign but extended their goal difference ahead of their final group game. It was a particularly important response for Ronaldo, who has struggled to make an impact in his first game.
Ronaldo and Martinez react
Despite reaching another historic milestone, Ronaldo insists the team’s success remains his priority.“The team performed very well and improved a lot. As the saying goes, when there is a dark cloud, there is always a silver lining. Obviously, for me personally, the record is always good, but my goal is always to help the national team achieve its goals,” he said.Portugal coach Roberto Martinez praised his team’s response after a disappointing start.“That’s the reaction we got in the dressing room. Sometimes you need a game like the first to grow in the championship. Today we saw a team with the same attitude and commitment, but with more maturity because it’s no longer the opening game,” Martinez said.For Ronaldo, it was yet another reminder that even at 41 years old, he is still capable of making football history.
