Ronaldo rewrites history with dazzling double as Portugal crush Uzbekistan 5-0

HOUSTON: Cristiano Ronaldo rolled back the years with a sensational two-goal display as Portugal swept aside Uzbekistan 5-0 on Tuesday, securing their first victory of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and taking a significant step towards the knockout stages.

The 41-year-old captain delivered a trademark performance, scoring twice in the first half as Portugal dominated from start to finish in Houston. The result lifted Portugal to four points from two Group K matches, putting them firmly in contention for a place in the round of 32.

Ronaldo reaches new milestones

Ronaldo’s brace added yet another chapter to his remarkable career as he became the first player ever to score in six different World Cup editions and moved ahead of legendary forward Eusebio as Portugal’s all-time leading scorer at the tournament with 10 goals.

His performance also placed him among the oldest scorers in World Cup history, with only Cameroonian icon Roger Milla having found the net at an older age.

After drawing criticism for failing to make an impact in Portugal’s opening 1-1 draw against DR Congo, Ronaldo responded emphatically, finding the net in the sixth and 39th minutes.

Portugal take early control

The breakthrough arrived almost immediately after kickoff. Joao Cancelo surged down the right flank and delivered a precise cross into the penalty area, where Ronaldo met the ball first time and fired past goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov.

Portugal doubled their advantage in the 17th minute through Nuno Mendes. With Ronaldo expected to take a free kick from just outside the area, the defender instead stepped up and curled an effort around the wall and into the net.

Uzbekistan briefly thought they had reduced the deficit when Azizjon Ganiev struck from long range midway through the half. However, a VAR review ruled out the goal after a foul on Cancelo in the build-up.

Portugal capitalised on the reprieve, with Bruno Fernandes leading a rapid counterattack before feeding Ronaldo, who calmly slotted home his second goal of the evening.

Leao caps dominant display

Ronaldo pushed for a hat-trick after the break but was repeatedly denied by Nematov. Portugal nevertheless continued to create chances and extended their lead in the 60th minute when a dangerous free kick resulted in an own goal after the ball deflected into the net.

Uzbekistan struggled to trouble the Portuguese defence despite occasional attacks, while Rafael Leao added further gloss to the scoreline late on, finishing from close range in the 87th minute.

The emphatic victory leaves Portugal well positioned ahead of a decisive clash with Colombia, while Uzbekistan remain without a point and face an uphill battle to keep their World Cup hopes alive.