FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronaldo breaks Messi's record, becomes oldest player to score multi-goal in WC match

Cristiano Ronaldo has shattered Lionel Messi's record to become the oldest player to score a brace in a FIFA World Cup match. The Portuguese superstar achieved this milestone at 41 years and 138 days old during Portugal's commanding 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan in their Group K clash of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Ronaldo's record-breaking performance saw him net two goals, extending his World Cup tally. Portugal's other goals came from Nuno Mendes, Rafael Leao, and an own goal. This emphatic win secured Portugal's first victory of the tournament.

With his brace, Ronaldo surpassed Lionel Messi's previous record, set when the Argentine scored twice against Austria at 38 years and 363 days. Ronaldo also ranks as the second-oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup, with former Cameroon striker Roger Milla holding the record at 42 years and 39 days.

Beyond his age-related records, Ronaldo solidified his status as Portugal's all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history, bringing his total to 10 goals, surpassing legendary forward Eusebio. He also became the first player ever to score in six different FIFA World Cup tournaments. Notably, Ronaldo shares the record with Messi for the longest gap between a player's first and most recent World Cup goals, both at 20 years and 11 days.