Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal defeated Uzbekistan 5-0 at the World Cup in Houston on June 23. The result came after criticism of Ronaldo following a 1-1 draw with DR Congo the previous week.
Ronaldo opened the scoring after six minutes with a first-half volley that made him the first player to score in six World Cup finals. His second goal before halftime overtook Eusebio as Portugal's all-time leading scorer at the tournament with 10 goals.
Nuno Mendes added a third from a free kick. An own goal by Uzbekistan goalkeeper Abdouvakhid Nematov made it 4-0 before Rafa Leao scored late to complete the win.
Ronaldo told Sport TV after the match: “It was a tough week, a dark one, it started as if I had retired from football. But I held on as I always hold on because I believe in work more than football.”
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez said the performance showed the team's maturity. The victory virtually ensures Portugal's place in the round of 32.
