Portugal made a blistering start in its 2026 World Cup group-stage match against Uzbekistan, but the game was far from over after the underdog fought back to make it 2-1. Cristiano Ronaldo struck in the 6th minute to give Portugal an early lead, and the goal carried historic weight: he became the first player ever to score in six different World Cup tournaments.
Portugal doubled its advantage in the 17th minute through Nuno Mendes, appearing to take control after a dominant opening spell. But Uzbekistan stayed alive and reduced the deficit in the 29th minute, when Aziz Ganiev exploited a gap in the Portuguese defense and beat the goalkeeper.
The goal made the contest tense again, with the article stressing that a dramatic and tightly contested finish now lies ahead in this 2026 World Cup group-stage meeting.