Cristiano Ronaldo entered the record books again on Tuesday, becoming the first player ever to score in six different World Cups. The 41-year-old found the net in the sixth minute of Portugal’s match against Uzbekistan, which was being played at the time of publication, and raised his World Cup total to nine goals, still well behind Lionel Messi.
The goal also moved Ronaldo into second place on the list of the oldest scorers in World Cup history. He did it at 41 years and 138 days, passing his close friend Pepe, who scored at the previous tournament at 39 years and 283 days. The all-time record remains with Cameroon’s Roger Milla, who scored at the 1994 World Cup at 42 years and 39 days.
The tournament had begun poorly for Ronaldo, who looked out of form in Portugal’s opening 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo. He was heavily criticized, and media outlets even questioned coach Roberto Rodriguez about why he kept Ronaldo on the field in decisive moments. On Tuesday, Ronaldo answered those doubts on the pitch and celebrated in his familiar style.
Portugal’s positive momentum continued in the 17th minute when Ronaldo, unusually, declined to take a free kick just outside the box. Nuno Mendes stepped up instead, surprised everyone, and scored as well.
