Ronaldo answers critics with World Cup scoring record
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Cristiano Ronaldo scored two goals in Portugal's 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan, becoming the first male player to score in six World Cups.
- Ronaldo responded to critics who had questioned his form after a subdued performance in Portugal's opening match.
- He emphasized his belief in hard work and his consistent ability to perform when it matters.
Cristiano Ronaldo silenced his critics with a brace in Portugal's commanding 5-0 win against Uzbekistan, a performance that etched his name further into World Cup history. The veteran forward became the first male player to score in six different World Cup tournaments, a remarkable achievement that underscores his enduring impact on the sport.
It was a difficult week, a dark week. It seemed like I was already retired from football, but I held on, as always, because I believe more in work than in anything else.
Following a less-than-stellar performance in Portugal's opening 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he faced accusations of being "old" and "retired," Ronaldo expressed his resilience. "It was a difficult week, a dark week. It seemed like I was already retired from football, but I held on, as always, because I believe more in work than in anything else," he stated.
Addressing the narrative that other stars had already made their mark in the tournament, Ronaldo asserted his consistent presence. "I always arrive, sooner or later, but I am there. That's why I continue with my work and believe in what I do," he declared. He acknowledged the pressure but highlighted his team's improvement and focus.
I always arrive, sooner or later, but I am there. That's why I continue with my work and believe in what I do.
While acknowledging the personal milestone of setting a new World Cup scoring record, Ronaldo reiterated his primary objective: to help Portugal achieve its team goals. "It's always nice to break records, but my goal is to help the national team reach its goals," he said, expressing satisfaction with the team's current standing with four points, which he believes is enough to advance.
It's always nice to break records, but my goal is to help the national team reach its goals.
Originally published by TVN Panamรก in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.