Portugal advance on knockout stage brink after Ronaldo’s historic double against Uzbekistan
Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score at six World Cups as Portugal thrashed debutants Uzbekistan 5-0 in Houston, silencing critics and positioning the team for the last 32.
Portugal secured a commanding 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan in their Group K fixture at Houston Stadium on 23 June 2026, placing the national side on the brink of the knockout rounds. The result marks a significant turnaround for the Portuguese squad following a disappointing 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening match, effectively resetting their tournament trajectory under coach Roberto Martinez.
Cristiano Ronaldo was central to the victory, scoring twice to become the first player in history to score at six World Cup tournaments spanning from 2006 to 2026. His first goal, a powerful strike from a Joao Cancelo cross in the sixth minute, broke the previous record for tournament appearances with goals. The second goal, a controlled finish six minutes before half-time, brought his career World Cup tally to 10, surpassing the record previously held by Portuguese legend Eusebio.
The match opened with Portugal dominating possession and chances, though early attempts by Ronaldo were narrowly missed. The breakthrough came from Nuno Mendes, who curled in a free kick in the 17th minute to make it 2-0. Uzbekistan, a debutant nation coached by 2006 World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro, struggled to contain the Portuguese attack, with a potential goal from Azizjon Ganiev disallowed by VAR for a foul on Cancelo.
Ronaldo added his second of the game shortly before the break, rolling in a third goal with only the goalkeeper to beat. The fourth came from an own goal by Uzbekistan goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov following a corner kick, while substitute Rafael Leao scored an emphatic fifth in the 87th minute. The victory contrasts sharply with Ronaldo’s earlier struggles in the tournament, where he had missed two chances against DR Congo, sparking calls from critics for his removal from the starting lineup.
Portugal’s final group match is scheduled for Saturday against Colombia, who previously defeated Uzbekistan 3-1. The win ensures Portugal remains in contention for the last 32, with Martinez’s decision to retain his captain vindicated by the team’s improved performance and confidence.
