Ronaldo Makes History as Portugal Run Riot Against Uzbekistan
At 41 years and 138 days old, Ronaldo became the second-oldest player ever to score at a FIFA World Cup. Only Roger Milla was older when he famously scored for Cameroon against Russia at the 1994 World Cup at the age of 42 years and 39 days.
Cristiano Ronaldo once again proved why he remains one of football’s greatest icons, scoring twice as Portugal cruised to a commanding 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan at the FIFA World Cup 2026™ on Tuesday in Houston.
The Portuguese captain delivered a record-breaking performance that helped launch Portugal’s tournament campaign in spectacular fashion while writing another chapter in football history.
Portugal 5-0 Uzbekistan
Portugal scorers: Ronaldo (6', 39'), Nuno Mendes (17'), Nematov (own goal, 60'), Rafael Leão (87')
After watching fellow superstars Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland dominate the headlines during the opening stages of the tournament, Ronaldo ensured his name would once again be at the center of the global football conversation.
Playing in an unprecedented sixth FIFA World Cup, the 41-year-old opened the scoring after just six minutes. João Cancelo delivered a dangerous cross into the penalty area, and Ronaldo finished brilliantly from close range to give Portugal an early advantage.
The goal was historic. Ronaldo became the first player ever to score in six different FIFA World Cup tournaments, adding another remarkable record to his legendary career. The strike also made him the second-oldest goalscorer in World Cup history, behind only Cameroonian legend Roger Milla.
Portugal doubled their lead in the 17th minute when Nuno Mendes found the net with an excellent free-kick. Ronaldo played a key role in the move, cleverly distracting defenders and helping create the opening.
The veteran striker struck again just before halftime, calmly placing his shot into the corner in the 39th minute. The goal was his 10th in World Cup competition, moving him past Portuguese legend Eusébio's tally of nine and making Ronaldo Portugal’s all-time leading scorer at FIFA World Cup finals.
Portugal continued to dominate after the break. Uzbekistan goalkeeper Utkir Nematov unfortunately turned the ball into his own net in the 60th minute, extending Portugal’s advantage to four goals.
Rafael Leão completed the rout in the 87th minute with a composed finish, sealing an emphatic 5-0 victory.
Uzbekistan believed they had pulled one back through a stunning long-range effort from Azizjon Ganiev, but the goal was ruled out following a foul in the buildup. The World Cup debutants now face a difficult battle to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Historic Ronaldo
At 41 years and 138 days old, Ronaldo became the second-oldest player ever to score at a FIFA World Cup. Only Roger Milla was older when he famously scored for Cameroon against Russia at the 1994 World Cup at the age of 42 years and 39 days.
The Portuguese superstar also became the first footballer in history to score in six different World Cup tournaments:
2006 2010 2014 2018 2022 2026 Player of the Match
🏆 Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
What They Said
Cristiano Ronaldo:
"I'm very happy. But for me, the most important thing is our work and the confidence we showed. The team performed really well and improved a lot. Records are always nice, but my goal is always to help the national team achieve its objectives."
Portugal coach Roberto Martínez:
"This was the response we had in the dressing room. There are times when you need a game like the first one in order to grow in the tournament. Today we saw a team with the same attitude and commitment, but with greater maturity. I'm very pleased with the result."
The Bottom Line
Portugal delivered one of the most impressive performances of the World Cup so far, but the night belonged to Cristiano Ronaldo. At 41 years old, the legendary forward continues to defy age, break records, and inspire his nation as Portugal's quest for World Cup glory gathers momentum.