Kha Y Tran Cristiano Ronaldo made history as Portugal defeated Uzbekistan 5-0 in Group K of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Portuguese captain scored twice and became the first player ever to score in six consecutive World Cup tournaments.
The victory also moved Portugal to the top of Group K with four points. Meanwhile, Ronaldo finally scored his first goals of the tournament after facing criticism following Portugal’s draw against DR Congo.
Watch the match highlights at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwbH2dm1AXo
Ronaldo Opens the Scoring Early
Before this match, many fans were waiting for Cristiano Ronaldo to score. Lionel Messi had already scored five goals at the tournament. In addition, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland had four goals each. Harry Kane had also found the net.
As a result, pressure on Ronaldo continued to grow.
However, Portugal’s captain answered quickly.
In the sixth minute, Portugal launched an attack down the right side. Joao Cancelo delivered a pass into the penalty area. Ronaldo timed his run perfectly and finished with one touch.
The ball flew past goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov and into the net.
The goal was historic. Ronaldo became the first player to score in six different World Cups. Moreover, the goal removed much of the pressure surrounding the 41-year-old star.
Ronaldo opened the scoring for Portugal. PHOTO: REUTERS
Portugal Take Full Control
After scoring, Portugal continued attacking.
Unlike their first match, they played with confidence and energy. Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Joao Felix moved constantly and created space for their teammates.
As a result, Uzbekistan struggled to defend.
Goalkeeper Nematov was helpless against Ronaldo. PHOTO: REUTERS
Portugal doubled their lead in the 17th minute. Nuno Mendes surprised everyone with a brilliant free-kick from outside the penalty area. His left-footed strike beat Nematov and made it 2-0.
A few minutes later, Uzbekistan thought they had scored. Aziz Ganiev found the net with a long-range shot. However, VAR canceled the goal because of a foul earlier in the attack.
Portugal remained in complete control.
Ronaldo Scores His Second Goal
Ronaldo added another goal before halftime.
In the 39th minute, Bruno Fernandes delivered an excellent through pass. Ronaldo once again timed his run perfectly. He then calmly placed his shot into the corner.
The goal gave Portugal a 3-0 lead.
Ronaldo is always the focal point in Portugal’s attack. (PHOTO: REUTERS)
Even at 41 years old, Ronaldo continues to show why he remains one of football’s greatest players. Although he may not be as fast as before, his movement and finishing ability remain world-class.
Ronaldo almost completed a hat-trick before halftime. He chipped the goalkeeper beautifully, but a Uzbekistan defender cleared the ball off the line.
Still, Ronaldo entered halftime with two goals and another record.
Portugal Continue Dominating
Portugal slowed the pace slightly in the second half. Nevertheless, they continued to create chances.
Early in the half, Ronaldo nearly scored again. However, goalkeeper Nematov rushed forward and made an important save.
Portugal scored their fourth goal in the 60th minute.
After a corner kick, Uzbekistan failed to clear the ball properly. The ball bounced off goalkeeper Nematov and into the net for an own goal.
The mistake reflected Portugal’s complete dominance.
Uzbekistan Cannot Find an Answer
To their credit, Uzbekistan kept fighting.
Coach Fabio Cannavaro encouraged his players to attack whenever possible. However, Portugal’s defense stayed organized and disciplined.
Uzbekistan’s best chance arrived in the 77th minute. Eldor Shomurodov found space inside the penalty area and fired a shot. Unfortunately, the ball sailed over the crossbar.
Overall, Uzbekistan struggled throughout the match.
Rafael Leao Completes the Rout
Portugal added one final goal in the 88th minute.
Rafael Leao received the ball inside the penalty area with plenty of space. He then blasted a powerful shot into the roof of the net.
The goal completed a dominant 5-0 victory.
Portugal finished the match with five goals, a clean sheet, and complete control from start to finish.
Ronaldo Answers Messi
Much of the attention at the FIFA World Cup 2026 has focused on the rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
After Messi’s impressive performances for Argentina, many people wondered if Ronaldo could produce his own memorable moment.
Against Uzbekistan, he delivered exactly that.
Although Messi still leads the scoring race, Ronaldo reminded the football world that he remains capable of making history.
What Happens Next?
Portugal now sit at the top of Group K with four points and a strong goal difference.
Their final group-stage match against Colombia will decide who finishes first in the group. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan must beat DR Congo to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.
For now, however, this night belongs to Cristiano Ronaldo.
At 41 years old, he continues to break records, silence critics, and prove that he remains one of football’s greatest legends.
Read more:
Ronaldo Fails to Inspire Portugal at World Cup 2026
Colombia Top Group K After 3-1 Win at World Cup
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