Ronaldo has long been Portugal's go-to star in major tournaments, including the Euros and the World Cup. Ahead of the Uzbekistan match, though, he had gone 10 games without a goal at a major tournament. His brace against Uzbekistan changed that run and also put him alongside Lionel Messi on an elite international mark.
Ronaldo Matches Messi World Cup Record
Ronaldo's first strike came from a near post finish and was his ninth career World Cup goal. That goal also placed him in FIFA World Cup history as both the youngest and oldest goalscorer for a country at the tournament, a record he shares with Argentina's Lionel Messi and Denmark's Michael Laudrup.
His second goal in the 39th minute pushed Portugal's lead to 3-0 at that stage of the match. The brace came after Portugal opened their World Cup campaign with a frustrating 1-1 draw against DR Congo.
Portugal Takes Control of Group K
Ronaldo's goals helped Portugal dismantle Uzbekistan and secure a dominant group stage win. After 90 minutes, Portugal walked away with a 5-0 result and moved to the top of Group K with four points.
Portugal are in a strong position to advance to the Round of 32, but their place will be settled in their final group stage match against Colombia. With a plus 5 goal difference, a win or even a draw should be enough for a top two finish. A heavy defeat in that final group game could still put Portugal's qualification at risk.
Featured names
- Cristiano Ronaldo
- Lionel Messi
- Uzbekistan World
- Michael Laudrup
- While Portugal
- Kylian Mbappe
- Lisandro Martinez
- Chad Ochocinco
- Uzbekistan Cristiano
- Uzbekistan Ronaldo
