Ronaldo answers critics with double in Portugal's 5-0 rout of Uzbekistan
Cristiano Ronaldo becomes the first player to score in six men's World Cups and hits back at a hostile week as Portugal revive their group campaign.
Henry Caldwell
Football Writer ·
Cristiano Ronaldo responded to a difficult week of criticism by scoring twice as Portugal swept aside Uzbekistan 5-0 at the World Cup.
The double carried historic weight: Ronaldo became the first player to score in six men's World Cups, turning a testing build-up into a record-breaking afternoon.
Hitting back
Ronaldo said public opinion had been harsh on Portugal and their coach, framing the performance as an answer to those who had written him off. The emphatic win shifted the debate away from age and decline and back towards resilience and finishing power.
What happens next
The result revives Portugal's campaign and restores momentum at a crucial stage of the group. With confidence renewed, attention turns to whether they can sustain the level against tougher opponents to come.
Source: This summary is based on reporting by Associated Press. The NE Times aggregates and rewrites news for readability; please refer to the original for the full report.
For informational purposes only. The NE Times does not provide live or breaking news coverage — we collect stories from established sources and present them in a readable format. Disclaimer.
You may also like to read
Portugal close ranks around Ronaldo as World Cup scrutiny intensifies
With criticism of the veteran forward mounting before the Uzbekistan match, manager Roberto Martinez has dismissed some of the commentary as unfair, leaving the next performance to settle the debate.
Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first man to score at six World Cups
The Portugal forward's latest tournament goal added another record to one of football's longest international careers, reportedly making him the first player to score across six men's World Cups.
Scotland Face Anxious World Cup Wait After 3-0 Brazil Defeat in Miami
Steve Clarke's side are left relying on results elsewhere after a chastening loss to Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil exposed defensive frailties at the 2026 finals.
Spain make statement with 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia as Yamal shines
Lamine Yamal inspires a fast start as the European champions answer an opening draw, strengthening their case as World Cup favourites.