2026 World Cup: Ronaldo scores twice as Portugal dominates Uzbekistan at halftime

23.06.26 FT World Cup

Portugal

5

:

Uzbekistan

0

In commanding fashion, Portugal is cruising against Uzbekistan (3-0) at halftime at Houston's NRG Stadium, in the second round of Group K action at this 2026 World Cup.

Right from kickoff, the Portuguese immediately created a great chance with a shot from Fernandes, deflected by Abdullaev. Just a few minutes later, Portugal got its well-deserved reward as Cancelo whipped in a cross and Ronaldo finished it off (1-0, 6'). The Portuguese captain then became the first player in history to score in six different World Cup editions. Minutes later, from a free kick, Mendes doubled the lead with a thunderous strike (2-0, 17').

Before the break, Ronaldo, sent through on goal by Fernandes, bagged a brace with a clinical finish (3-0, 39'), and nearly completed his hat-trick but Khusanov made a crucial goal-line save to keep Uzbekistan alive.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

Related teams and leagues

Portugal

Uzbekistan

World Cup