2026 World Cup: Portugal cruises past Uzbekistan

Portugal responded perfectly after their draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo (1-1). In the second match of Group K at the 2026 World Cup, the Seleção secured a commanding 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan on Tuesday in Houston. A resounding win highlighted by a brace from Cristiano Ronaldo, who further cemented his legendary status.

From the opening minutes, the Portuguese displayed their ambitions. After an initial warning shot from Bruno Fernandes, Portugal quickly found the breakthrough. From a precise cross by João Cancelo, Cristiano Ronaldo opened the scoring from close range (6th minute, 1-0). With this goal, the Portuguese captain became the first player in history to score in six different editions of the World Cup.

Dominating in all aspects of the game, Roberto Martinez's men doubled their lead shortly after thanks to Nuno Mendes. The full-back converted a powerful free-kick that left the Uzbek goalkeeper with no chance (17th minute, 2-0).

Completely outmatched, Uzbekistan thought they had narrowed the gap with a superb goal from Ganiev. But after a VAR review, the goal was disallowed for a prior foul by Fayzullaev on Cancelo. A scare that had no bearing on the Portuguese, who continued to control the game.

Before the break, Ronaldo scored twice, calmly finishing off a through ball from Bruno Fernandes (39th minute, 3-0). The Al-Nassr striker almost added a third goal moments later, but Khusanov made a crucial intervention on the line.

After returning from the locker room, Portugal eased off somewhat while maintaining complete control of the match. Despite a few long-range attempts from Uzbekistan, the most dangerous chances remained with Portugal. Following a corner poorly dealt with by goalkeeper Nematov, he unfortunately inadvertently pushed the ball into his own net at the end of a chaotic sequence (60th minute, 4-0).

Stunned by the fourth goal, Fabio Cannavaro's players never managed to reignite the suspense. Ronaldo tried again to increase the score, but was repeatedly thwarted by Nematov.

Finally, it was Rafael Leão who closed out the Portuguese festival by scoring a superb fifth goal with a powerful shot into the top corner three minutes from the end of regulation time (87th, 5-0).

With this resounding victory, Portugal has relaunched its qualification hopes in an ideal way and sent a strong message to its future opponents. As for Cristiano Ronaldo, he continues to write world football history, even at 41 years old.