Cristiano Ronaldo’s Historic Achievement at World Cup

HOUSTON (AP) — Cristiano Ronaldo set a record by becoming the first player to score in six different World Cup tournaments. This achievement came during Portugal’s match against Uzbekistan, where he scored twice.

At 41, Ronaldo made history in the sixth minute. João Cancelo sent a cross, and Ronaldo scored with his right foot, putting Portugal ahead. He celebrated the milestone with his teammates.

Ronaldo scored again in the 39th minute. Bruno Fernandes provided the pass, and Ronaldo finished with precision, bringing the score to 3-0.

Ronaldo is now the second-oldest player to score at a World Cup, trailing only Roger Milla of Cameroon, who scored at age 42 in the 1994 tournament.

“Ronaldo faced criticism after Portugal’s 1-1 draw against Congo, but his latest performance silenced the critics,” noted analysts.

This year, Ronaldo and Lionel Messi became the only men to play in six World Cup tournaments. While Messi shares this record, Ronaldo is the only player to score in each one. Messi did not score in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Ronaldo’s scoring journey began in 2006, with goals added in 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022. His two goals on Tuesday increase his World Cup tally to 10. Messi has scored 18, becoming the all-time leading scorer after recent matches where he performed notably against Algeria and Austria.

Tuesday marked Ronaldo’s 230th international game, a record in itself.

As Ronaldo likely approaches his final World Cup, his legacy includes winning the European Championship with Portugal in 2016 and five Champions League titles with Manchester United and Real Madrid.

For more World Cup coverage, visit AP World Cup.