Cristiano Ronaldo hopes his two-goal performance against Uzbekistan will silence his critics after finally opening his account in the 2026 World Cup. The Portugal captain had not scored from open play in his previous 12 World Cup and European Championship matches, including a blank against DR Congo in the tournament's opening game.
Ronaldo responds to critics with record-breaking brace
The 41-year-old's display in the first match drew widespread criticism, with pundits questioning whether the veteran should remain in the starting lineup for a side with title aspirations. However, the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus star ended his drought after just six minutes, sweeping home a half-volley from Joao Cancelo's cross.
That goal made history: Ronaldo became the first male player to score in six different World Cups. He doubled his tally five minutes before halftime, latching onto Bruno Fernandes's pass before coolly slotting home. Portugal won 5-0 in Houston.
'A difficult, dark week'
Speaking after the match, Ronaldo admitted the period since the DR Congo game was challenging. 'I knew it. God helps those who work hard,' he said. 'It was a difficult, dark week, it felt like I was already retired from football, but I held on as I always do because I believe more in hard work than in football. It was difficult, I have to confess, but we're back.'
