Cristiano Ronaldo Makes History with Goal in Sixth FIFA World Cup
Ronaldo's Historic Achievement
In Texas, on June 23, Cristiano Ronaldo, the legendary Portuguese footballer, etched his name in history by becoming the first player ever to score in six different FIFA World Cup tournaments.
This remarkable milestone was reached during Portugal's match against Uzbekistan in the FIFA World Cup 2026, held on Tuesday, June 23 (local time).
Ronaldo had previously netted goals in each of the last five World Cup tournaments, and his latest goal against Uzbekistan solidified his status as a football icon.
He began his World Cup scoring journey in 2006, added to his tally in 2010, scored again in 2014, netted four times in 2018, and found the net once more in 2022 before achieving this latest feat in 2026.
Spanning two decades, Ronaldo's record showcases his longevity in the sport, with his first World Cup goal coming at the age of 21 and his most recent at 41.
In the Group K match at Houston Stadium, he took less than six minutes to score, putting his team ahead.
Despite holding the record for the most international goals (144), Ronaldo's recent performance has seen a goal drought, as he has not scored in his last ten matches since his last major tournament goal against Ghana in the 2022 World Cup.
Portugal entered this match eager for their first victory of the tournament after a draw with DR Congo, while Uzbekistan aimed to recover from a 3-1 loss to Colombia.
Portugal welcomed back center-back Ruben Dias, who had missed the previous match due to injury, replacing Tomas Araujo, who is also injured.
Winger Joao Felix was included in the starting lineup, taking the place of Bernardo Silva.
Uzbekistan's goalkeeper, Abduvohid Nematov, started the match, with the team opting for a five-man defense, including midfielders Odiljon Xamrobekov and Azizjon Ganiev as part of their tactical adjustments.
Portugal's lineup featured Diogo Costa, Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, Joao Neves, Bruno Fernandes, Pedro Neto, Joao Felix, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Uzbekistan's squad included Abduvohid Nematov, Abdukodir Khusanov, Rustam Ashurmatov, Sherzod Nasrullaev, Abdulla Abdullaev, Behruzjon Karimov, Odiljon Xamrobekov, Otabek Shukurov, Azizjon Ganiev, Abbosbek Fayzullaev, and Eldor Shomurodov.