Amid the spotlight on the new generation of world football stars, Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a clear statement that he is far from finished. At 41 years old, the Portugal captain produced a brilliant performance, scoring twice as his side thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0 in their second Group K match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Houston on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
After facing criticism following Portugal’s opening match against DR Congo, Ronaldo responded in spectacular fashion by breaking another record.
His first goal came in the sixth minute, finishing off a cross from João Cancelo. The strike immediately made history, as Ronaldo became the first player ever to score in six different FIFA World Cup tournaments, dating back to his debut in 2006.
The goal also made him the second-oldest scorer in World Cup history at 41 years and 138 days. The record is still held by Cameroon legend Roger Milla, who scored at the age of 42 years and 39 days during the 1994 World Cup.
Portugal doubled their lead in the 17th minute through Nuno Mendes. Before halftime, Ronaldo once again showcased his quality by scoring his second goal of the match.
The goal marked Ronaldo’s 10th career goal in FIFA World Cup finals, surpassing Portuguese legend Eusébio, who scored nine.
Portugal’s dominance continued in the second half. An own goal by Nematov in the 60th minute extended the lead to 4-0 before Rafa Leão completed the scoring in the 87th minute to seal a convincing victory for Selecao das Quinas.
“I am very happy. The most important thing is the hard work and confidence we showed. This team played very well and is improving quickly,” Ronaldo said after the match.
“Of course, records are always nice, but my main goal is to help the national team achieve its objectives,” he added.
Although Ronaldo was the standout figure on the pitch, he was not rated as the best player of the match according to statistical analysis.
Football statistics platform Sofascore ranked the Portugal captain third among the top performers, awarding him a rating of 8.5. He finished behind Nuno Mendes, who received an 8.9 rating, and Bruno Fernandes with 8.7.
The assessment came as a surprise considering Ronaldo scored two goals and played a central role in Portugal’s victory.
However, some aspects of his performance were considered less than perfect. Sofascore noted that the 41-year-old missed three clear scoring opportunities and was caught offside twice during the match.
Knockout Stage Race
Despite Portugal’s emphatic victory, Colombia became the first team from Group K to secure a place in the Round of 32.
Los Cafeteros sealed qualification after defeating DR Congo 1-0 at Guadalajara Stadium.
The victory was Colombia’s second consecutive win, giving them six points and guaranteeing a top-two finish in the group.
The only goal of the match was scored by Daniel Muñoz in the 76th minute after a tightly contested and intense encounter.
The result leaves Colombia at the top of Group K. The remaining Round of 32 spot will be contested by Portugal and DR Congo.
In the final round of group-stage matches, Colombia will face Portugal, while DR Congo will take on Uzbekistan.
DR Congo can still qualify automatically as runners-up if they defeat Uzbekistan by more than seven goals and Portugal lose to Colombia.***
