Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice to become Portugal’s all-time leading World Cup scorer as his side crushed Uzbekistan 5-0 in Houston….reports London Daily News Desk
Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a historic performance with a brace as Portugal thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K clash, securing their first win of the tournament and moving to the top of the standings.
Ronaldo’s two-goal display helped Portugal bounce back emphatically from their opening 1-1 draw against DR Congo, while also rewriting the record books. The veteran forward became Portugal’s all-time leading World Cup scorer with 10 goals, surpassing the mark of nine set by Eusebio, and became the first player in history to score in six different FIFA World Cup tournaments.
Portugal dominated from the outset at Houston Stadium and took the lead after just six minutes. Joao Cancelo’s low cross found Ronaldo inside the box and the captain made no mistake from close range.
The European side doubled their advantage in the 17th minute through Nuno Mendes, who curled a stunning free-kick into the top corner.
Ronaldo struck again six minutes before the break after being played through by Bruno Fernandes, calmly slotting home to make it 3-0 and put Portugal firmly in control.
Uzbekistan struggled to create meaningful opportunities after the interval as Portugal continued to dictate proceedings. Their fourth goal arrived in the 60th minute when a dangerous corner from Fernandes led to confusion in the Uzbekistan penalty area, with the ball eventually deflecting off goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov for an own goal.
Substitute Rafael Leao completed the rout in the 87th minute, firing home from close range after reacting quickest to a loose ball inside the area.
The victory lifted Portugal to four points from two matches and significantly improved their goal difference ahead of a decisive final group-stage clash with Colombia.
Ronaldo’s match-winning display also ended concerns over his recent form after he failed to score in Portugal’s tournament opener. The 41-year-old responded in style, leading his side to a convincing victory and another memorable night on football’s biggest stage.
