Cristiano Ronaldo scored two goals in Portugal‘s 5-0 victory against Uzbekistan, marking his return to form after earlier criticism in the 2026 World Cup. The forward’s performance saw him become the first player to score in six editions of the tournament.
Ronaldo, at 41 years old, celebrated his achievement by declaring, “I’m back! I’m back!” into a television camera. This emphatic response followed a period of scrutiny after Portugal’s 1-1 draw with DR Congo in their opening Group K match, where other prominent players like Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe had already made significant impacts.
The veteran player opened his scoring just six minutes into the match with a half-volley from Joao Cancelo‘s cross. He then added a second goal before half-time, converting a pass from Bruno Fernandes. A potential hat-trick was denied by a goalline clearance from Abdukodir Khusanov.
Ronaldo’s Impact and Team Performance
Beyond Ronaldo’s individual contributions, Portugal’s victory was comprehensive. Nuno Mendes scored a free-kick, and an own goal from Uzbekistan goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov further extended Portugal’s lead. Substitute Rafael Leao completed the scoring with a late fifth goal.
Portugal’s manager, Roberto Martinez, highlighted Ronaldo’s crucial role in boosting team morale and maintaining standards, especially after the disappointing draw against DR Congo. Martinez praised Ronaldo as a “perfect captain” who utilised his experience to navigate criticism and maintain focus.
Former England captain Wayne Rooney commented on Ronaldo’s performance, calling it “incredible” for a player to score two goals at the World Cup at 41. Rooney noted Ronaldo’s consistent desire to be the best and his ability to respond to criticism throughout his career.
Ronaldo’s goals against Uzbekistan were his ninth and tenth in World Cup history, making him his nation’s outright top scorer in the competition. He is also the second-oldest goalscorer in World Cup history, behind only Cameroon‘s Roger Milla, who scored at 42 in 1994.
The match also saw a clever set-piece routine lead to Nematov’s own goal, and Rafael Leao’s rising drive sealed the 5-0 win. Martinez also acknowledged the work of set-piece coach Austin McPhee, whose “obsession” with set pieces contributed to the team’s success.
Reactions and Future Outlook
Uzbekistan boss Fabio Cannavaro, a 2006 World Cup winner with Italy, acknowledged Ronaldo’s continued high-level performance despite his age. Cannavaro stated that Ronaldo demonstrates that hunger and ability can persist at 41, and that he remains a significant figure in football history.
Roy Keane, speaking on ITV Sport, dismissed any doubts about Ronaldo’s capabilities, stating, “Cristiano Ronaldo was never gone. He is the man.” Keane admired Ronaldo’s persistent hunger and desire to score goals, setting an example for his teammates.
Ronaldo’s declaration of “I’m back” was intended to remind critics of his enduring presence in football, a career spanning 23 years. He emphasised that while personal records are pleasing, his primary goal is always to help the team achieve its objectives.
Portugal is scheduled to play Colombia on Sunday, 28 June, at 00:30 BST, in their final match to determine the top team in Group K.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
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Charlie Bradshaw is the Senior Football Correspondent at News-GB, covering the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side with ten years of reporting experience. He covered Merseyside football before going national. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Liverpool John Moores University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Liverpool, he watches non-league sides and collects old match programmes. “The back page is only ever half the story.”