The Return of a Legend: Ronaldo Sets a New Record
Cristiano Ronaldo once again proved his doubters wrong when he scored two goals in Portugal's 5-0 win over Uzbekistan in the 2026 World Cup Group K match. The 41-year-old player not only helped his team bounce back from a disappointing 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of the Congo, but also made history as the first player to score in six different World Cup editions.
After the match, Ronaldo, known for his fighting spirit, shouted towards the camera: "I'm back! I'm back!" - a clear message to those who doubted his abilities. "It's just so they don't forget - 23 years like this," he said when asked about the statement.
Outstanding Performance on the Field
Ronaldo needed just six minutes to open the scoring. He capitalized on a cross from Joao Cancelo with a well-timed half-volley. His second goal came before halftime, following a through pass from Bruno Fernandes, which he finished with a top-class strike. Only a last-ditch save by Uzbekistan goalkeeper Abdukodir Khusanov prevented Ronaldo from completing a hat-trick in the first half.
Although he didn't manage a hat-trick, Ronaldo's contributions were enough to ensure Portugal's big win. Nuno Mendes scored from a free kick, Uzbekistan goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov scored an own goal, and Rafael Leao netted in the final minute. This 5-0 victory was the third-largest win in the 2026 tournament.
Reactions from Teammates and Opponents
Portugal's head coach, Roberto Martinez, praised Ronaldo's role as a perfect captain. "It was a difficult week because we didn't achieve the result we wanted and there were many unfair criticisms. Cristiano Ronaldo is a perfect captain, very focused and using his experience. He is an icon, playing in his sixth World Cup, and is an example to the team."
Former England captain Wayne Rooney, who played with Ronaldo at Manchester United, was impressed by the Portuguese player's performance. "With all the top players scoring in this tournament, to score two goals in the World Cup at the age of 41 is extraordinary. He wasn't playing well, but that's what he does - he answers the critics. This is the response you'd expect from him."
Roy Keane, a Manchester United legend and now a sports commentator, also praised Ronaldo. "Cristiano Ronaldo never goes away. He's the man. What's the problem with everyone? A genius questioned. His two goals were great. He has joined the party. What's admirable about Ronaldo is his hunger to keep scoring goals even though he's a billionaire and has won everything except the World Cup."
Statistics and History
Ronaldo is now the first male or female player to score in six different World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2026). He is also the second oldest goalscorer in World Cup history at 41 years and 138 days, behind Cameroon's Roger Milla (42 years and 39 days in 1994).
Ronaldo and Lionel Messi now share the record for the longest gap between their first and last goals in World Cup history, which is 20 years and 11 days. Messi, who has played in every World Cup since 2006, failed to score in the 2010 edition, while Ronaldo has consistently scored in every tournament.
Next Challenges
Portugal will face Colombia on June 28 to determine the top spot in Group K and secure a path to the round of 32. With renewed spirit after this big win, Roberto Martinez's team is now in a strong position to advance further.
Ronaldo himself emphasized that personal records are a bonus, but his main goal is to help his team. "We had to go through a lot this week, but the team worked very well and we improved a lot. It was a difficult and dark week without football, but we managed to overcome it. We're back."
*Original source: [bbc.com](https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/clyx746enj9o)*