Portugal earned its first win at the 2026 World Cup, overwhelming Uzbekistan 5-0 and sending a strong message after a disappointing 1-1 draw with Congo in the opener. Despite rumors of unrest and clashes inside the squad, the Portuguese looked sharp and fully in control.
Cristiano Ronaldo was the standout, scoring twice and reaching 10 World Cup goals. He opened the scoring in the sixth minute from a João Cancelo assist, then added his second in the 39th minute after a fast break led by Bruno Fernandes. The performance underlined that, as the report put it, Ronaldo still belongs on the pitch.
Portugal made it 2-0 in the 16th minute when Nuno Mendes curled in a fine free kick. The second half slowed down, but Fernandes delivered another set piece in the 60th minute, and Uzbekistan goalkeeper Nematov accidentally turned the ball into his own net amid confusion in the box.
Substitute Rafael Leão completed the scoring in the 87th minute with an excellent finish. The result moves Portugal close to a place in the next round, and a final-group win over Colombia would secure first place. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, now need to beat Congo in their last game and hope other results go their way to advance.
