Cristiano Ronaldo became the first man to score in six different World Cups on Tuesday, netting twice as Portugal thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0 in Houston. The result lifted Portugal's World Cup campaign back on track after a disappointing start. On the same day, England's push to reach the last 32 stalled with a goalless draw against Ghana.
Did Ronaldo score for Portugal at the World Cup?
Yes. Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal beat Uzbekistan 5-0, ending a run of 10 matches without a goal at major tournaments. The 41-year-old had faced heavy criticism following Portugal's 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo. His brace confirmed his record as the first player to score across six separate World Cups.
How did Portugal beat Uzbekistan 5-0?
Ronaldo opened the scoring in the sixth minute, celebrating by mouthing "I'm back, I'm back." Nuno Mendes added a second with a well-taken free kick in the 17th minute, before Ronaldo struck again just before half-time to make it 3-0. Portugal extended their lead in the second half, with Rafael Leao scoring a standout goal to complete the rout.
After the match, Ronaldo addressed the criticism directly. He described the previous week as difficult, with public opinion turning sharply against the team and the coaching staff. He added that such scrutiny was familiar after 23 years as a professional, noting that people often write him off whenever results dip.
What does Portugal need to win Group K?
Portugal will face Colombia in their final Group K match and must beat the South Americans to finish top of the group. Colombia already secured their place in the last 32 after a 1-0 win over DR Congo on Tuesday. Colombia lead the group on six points, two ahead of Portugal, and only need a draw against Portugal in Miami on Saturday to win the group outright.
Why did England draw 0-0 with Ghana?
England were unable to break down a deep-lying Ghana defence at Foxborough, near Boston, managing few clear scoring chances throughout the match. This followed a strong start to their campaign, where England had beaten 2018 finalists Croatia 4-2 the previous week. Harry Kane summed up a frustrating night by blazing over an open goal in the closing minutes.
England also escaped a possible penalty in the 79th minute, when Ezri Konsa appeared to foul substitute Prince Adu inside the box. The draw left England and Ghana level on four points, just above Croatia, who beat Panama 1-0 in Toronto to eliminate the Central Americans. England remain in control of their own fate and would likely top the group with a win over already-eliminated Panama in their final match.
Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham said there was no reason to panic despite the result. He stated the team needed to stay calm rather than dwell on the setback, adding that this pattern, a strong start followed by a stutter, had repeated itself across tournaments he has played in.
Will Donald Trump attend the World Cup final?
FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed that US President Donald Trump will attend the World Cup final in New Jersey on July 19. Trump is expected to present the trophy to the winning team. Infantino said he looked forward to sharing the occasion with the president and handing over the trophy together.
