Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal defeated Uzbekistan 5-0 on Tuesday to move closer to securing a place in the World Cup knockout stage. The emphatic victory in Houston also answered growing criticism surrounding the veteran captain’s form.
Ronaldo opened the scoring after just six minutes to become the first player to score in six different World Cup campaigns. The record-breaking achievement surpassed Lionel Messi and extended Ronaldo’s World Cup scoring run from 2006 to 2026.
Nuno Mendes doubled Portugal’s lead before Ronaldo added his second goal with a composed finish six minutes before halftime. Consequently, Ronaldo reached 10 World Cup goals, surpassing every Portuguese player, including the legendary Eusebio.
Portugal dominated throughout the match against tournament debutants Uzbekistan. The visitors believed they had reduced the deficit through Azizjon Ganiev. However, VAR ruled out the goal for a foul on Joao Cancelo during the build-up.
Ronaldo nearly completed his hat-trick, but goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov denied him with a crucial save. Nevertheless, Portugal scored a fourth goal moments later when the ball deflected into the net off Nematov for an own goal. Substitute Rafael Leao then sealed the victory with an 87th-minute strike.
The performance marked a significant response from Ronaldo after criticism followed Portugal’s 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo. The 41-year-old had failed to convert his chances in that match, prompting calls for coach Roberto Martinez to leave him out of the starting lineup.
Despite the criticism, Martinez retained faith in his captain. Ronaldo rewarded that confidence with a clinical display before 68,777 spectators in Houston. Moreover, he entered the match holding the men’s international record with 143 goals and arrived after scoring 28 league goals in 30 matches for Al Nassr last season.
Portugal will conclude their Group campaign on Saturday against Colombia, who defeated Uzbekistan 3-1 in their opening fixture.
