Portugal secure Group K momentum with decisive victory over Uzbekistan
The 5-0 win in Houston moves Portugal to four points, ahead of Colombia, as the group stage nears its conclusion with final fixtures set for Saturday.
Portugal delivered a commanding performance to defeat Uzbekistan 5-0 in Group K of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Houston stadium on Tuesday. The result marks a significant recovery for the Portuguese side following a disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their opening fixture, securing four points in the group standings.
Cristiano Ronaldo was central to the victory, scoring two goals to become the first player in history to find the net in six different World Cup tournaments. The 41-year-old also extended his status as Portugal’s all-time leading marksman at the global finals. His first goal arrived in the sixth minute, converting a cross from João Cancelo, while his second came in the 39th minute following a pass from Bruno Fernandes. Ronaldo was subsequently named man of the match.
Coach Roberto Martínez faced scrutiny regarding Ronaldo’s inclusion in the starting lineup after the initial draw, but the decision was vindicated by the immediate impact. Martínez also implemented two other tactical changes, bringing Rúben Dias into the defence in place of the injured Tomas Araújo and substituting Bernardo Silva with João Félix. These adjustments appeared to stabilise the squad’s structure, allowing them to control the tempo of the encounter.
The scoring continued to accumulate for Portugal, with Nuno Mendes doubling the lead in the 17th minute with a free kick. The gap widened to 4-0 after an own goal in the 60th minute, and Rafael Leão capped the scoring in the 87th minute after coming on as a substitute in the 83rd. Uzbekistan’s best chance to respond was nullified in the 30th minute when a potential goal by midfielder Azizjon Ganiev was disallowed following a video review that confirmed a foul on Cancelo.
The victory positions Portugal favourably as the group stage concludes. Colombia currently sits on three points in Group K and faces DR Congo on Tuesday night in Guadalajara. Portugal’s final group match is scheduled for Saturday night in Miami against Colombia, while Uzbekistan will travel to Atlanta on Saturday to face Congo.
