Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first to score in six World Cups

Cristiano Ronaldo added yet another remarkable milestone to his legendary career after scoring twice in Portugal's emphatic 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan, becoming the first footballer to find the net in six separate FIFA World Cup tournaments.

The Portuguese captain responded in perfect fashion after criticism following his scoreless outing against DR Congo, producing a clinical display that guided Roberto Martinez's side to their first victory of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The result significantly strengthens Portugal's position in Group K and restores momentum ahead of their remaining group fixtures.

Ronaldo writes another chapter

The 41-year-old wasted little time making history. Just six minutes into the contest, Joao Cancelo delivered a dangerous cross into the penalty area where Ronaldo arrived to fire home with his right foot, becoming the only player ever to score in six different men's FIFA World Cup editions.

The veteran forward struck again before halftime after Bruno Fernandes threaded an excellent pass into his path. Ronaldo calmly finished at the near post to register his second goal of the afternoon and effectively end the contest before the interval.

His outstanding display earned him the official Player of the Match award.

Portugal bounce back in style

Portugal entered the fixture under pressure after being held to a frustrating draw by DR Congo in their tournament opener. Roberto Martinez's players responded with authority, dominating possession, controlling midfield and overwhelming Uzbekistan throughout the 90 minutes.

The attacking combinations between Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and Joao Cancelo consistently stretched the Uzbek defence, creating space for Ronaldo and Portugal's frontline to exploit.

The five-goal victory not only boosts Portugal's confidence but also improves their goal difference in what could become a tightly contested group.

Another record for Ronaldo

The brace extended Ronaldo's extraordinary international tally to 145 goals, further strengthening his position as the highest-scoring player in men's international football history.

His two strikes also lifted his World Cup total to 10 goals, moving him beyond Portuguese legend Eusébio to become Portugal's outright leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history.

In addition, the appearance marked Ronaldo's 230th international match, another world record that highlights his incredible longevity at the highest level. The Portuguese captain now stands alone in another remarkable category.

While both Ronaldo and Lionel Messi became the first male players to appear at six FIFA World Cups, Ronaldo is now the only player to score in every tournament he has participated in, beginning with Germany 2006.

Portugal build momentum in Group K

Portugal's commanding victory leaves Roberto Martinez's squad well placed heading into the remainder of the group stage. The balance between experienced leaders like Ronaldo and emerging talents throughout the squad gives Portugal genuine belief they can challenge for football's biggest prize.

With Ronaldo rediscovering his scoring touch after the opening match, Portugal's attack once again looks among the most dangerous at the tournament.

A legacy that continues to grow

Many expected the 2026 FIFA World Cup to serve as Ronaldo's final appearance on football's biggest stage. Instead of simply making history through longevity, the Portuguese superstar continues to shape matches with decisive performances.

At 41, Ronaldo is proving that age has done little to diminish his competitive edge, delivering yet another performance that reinforces his place among the greatest footballers the sport has ever produced.

Portugal will now hope their iconic captain can carry this form into the knockout rounds as they pursue a first-ever FIFA World Cup title.

SportsLigue