World Cup 2026 news: Cristiano Ronaldo silences critics with double in Portugal victory over Uzbekistan
Cristiano Ronaldo silenced recent criticism of his performances with a first-half brace as Portugal secured a commanding 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan in Group K on Tuesday.
The veteran forward scored in the sixth and 39th minutes at NRG Stadium to help Roberto Martinez's side record their first win of the tournament and strengthen their hopes of progressing to the knockout stages.
Nuno Mendes, an own goal from Abdulla Nematov and a late strike from Rafael Leão completed the scoring as Portugal produced their most convincing performance of World Cup 2026 so far.
Ronaldo answers his critics
Much of the pre-match discussion centred around Ronaldo following his quiet display in Portugal's opening draw against DR Congo.
Questions had been raised about the 41-year-old's role in the side, with former Netherlands striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink among those suggesting the forward could be more effective as an impact substitute.
Ronaldo responded in the best way possible.
The Portugal captain opened the scoring inside six minutes before adding a second before half-time, producing the type of clinical finishing that has defined his career.
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Keane praises Ronaldo mentality
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane was among those impressed by Ronaldo's performance.
"What you have to admire about Ronaldo is the hunger, the desire," Keane said on ITV, quoted on Sky Sports.
"Desperate to get more goals."
Keane believes that relentless mentality continues to separate Ronaldo from most players, even at this stage of his career.
"That's what a great example to his team is."
"He keeps trying to get goals."
The former Republic of Ireland midfielder also highlighted Ronaldo's movement inside the penalty area.
"At the highest level, it's about one-touch finishing," Keane said.
"His body position is always right."
Portugal find their rhythm
While Ronaldo grabbed the headlines, Portugal delivered a much-improved collective display.
Nuno Mendes doubled the advantage after Ronaldo's opener before Uzbekistan's hopes faded further following Nematov's unfortunate own goal.
Leão added a fifth late on as Portugal dominated large periods of the contest and finally produced the attacking fluency many expected before the tournament began.
The result represented a significant improvement from their opening group-stage performance and leaves Martinez's side well positioned heading into the latter stages of the competition.
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Portugal build momentum
Portugal entered World Cup 2026 with expectations of making a deep run given the quality available throughout their squad.
Although the opening draw raised questions, Tuesday's performance offered a reminder of the talent at Martinez's disposal.
Most importantly, Ronaldo finally announced himself at the tournament.
After a frustrating start, the Portugal captain delivered the decisive contribution his side needed.
And if he can continue producing moments like these, Portugal's hopes of challenging for the World Cup may look considerably stronger.
