Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a record-breaking performance as Portugal cruised to a 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan, securing their first win of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and reigniting their Group K campaign.
The 41-year-old opened the scoring after just six minutes in Houston, finishing from close range following a cross from Joao Cancelo. The goal saw Ronaldo become the first player in history to score in six different World Cup tournaments.
Portugal doubled their lead through Nuno Mendes in the 17th minute before Ronaldo struck again shortly before half-time, firing into the corner to register his 10th World Cup goal and move ahead of Eusébio as Portugal’s all-time leading scorer at the tournament.
An own goal by Uzbekistan goalkeeper Utkir Nematov midway through the second half further extended Portugal’s advantage before Rafa Leao completed the rout three minutes from time.
The victory lifted Roberto Martinez’s side to the top of Group K with four points from two matches, placing them in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stage. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, remain without a point after suffering consecutive defeats.
Ronaldo’s opener also made him the second-oldest goalscorer in World Cup history at 41 years and 138 days, behind only Cameroon legend Roger Milla.
Speaking after the match, Ronaldo said, “I’m very happy. But for me, the most important thing is our work and the confidence we showed. The team performed really well and improved a lot. As the saying goes, every cloud has a silver lining. Obviously, speaking personally, records are always nice, but my goal is always to help the national team achieve its objectives.”
Portugal coach Roberto Martínez added, “This was the response we had in the dressing room. There are times when you need a game like the first one in order to grow in the tournament. Today we saw a team with the same attitude and commitment, but with greater maturity because it was no longer the opening match. I’m very pleased with the result.”
