‘I’m back’: Record-breaker Ronaldo fires Portugal to 5-0 win over Uzbekistan

Cristiano Ronaldo marked his record sixth World Cup appearance with two goals, leading Portugal to a dominant 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan. The veteran striker, who had faced criticism for a recent goal drought, silenced doubters by becoming the first player to score in six different World Cups. His brace also saw him surpass Eusebio as Portugal's all-time leading scorer in the tournament.

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I’m back, I’m back

After the match, an emotional Ronaldo declared "I'm back," highlighting his personal satisfaction but emphasizing the team's overall improvement. "The team performed really well and improved a lot," he stated. "Records are always nice but my goal is always to help the national team achieve its objectives." Portugal, with four points from two games, now looks ahead to their final Group K match against Colombia, while Uzbekistan is on the brink of elimination.

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The team performed really well and improved a lot. As the saying goes, every cloud has a silver lining. Obviously, speaking personally, records are always nice but my goal is always to help the national team achieve its objectives.

Portugal displayed early intensity and quick ball movement, creating numerous chances throughout the game. Coach Roberto Martinez noted a significant improvement in the team's decision-making and finishing compared to their opening match. "Today we saw a team with the same attitude and commitment, but with greater maturity because it was no longer the opening match," Martinez commented. Nuno Mendes also contributed a free-kick goal, with Ronaldo acting as a decoy. Despite creating 17 attempts on goal, Portugal narrowly missed opportunities for a hat-trick for Ronaldo.

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This was the response we had in the dressing room. There are times when you need a game like the first one in order to grow in the tournament. Today we saw a team with the same attitude and commitment, but with greater maturity because it was no longer the opening match.