Portugal star scores twice to join scoring race; says Messi showdown 'obviously' welcome

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring his team's third goal against Uzbekistan in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Group K match at Houston Stadium in Houston, Texas, on Tuesday (local time). [Reuters-Yonhap]
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring his team's third goal against Uzbekistan in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Group K match at Houston Stadium in Houston, Texas, on Tuesday (local time). [Reuters-Yonhap]

Cristiano Ronaldo announced his return to form at the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday, scoring twice against Uzbekistan and firing back at critics who had questioned his form. "I always get there, sooner or later," the Portugal legend said.

Portugal defeated Uzbekistan 5-0 in their Group K second-round match at Houston Stadium in Houston, Texas, on Tuesday morning.

Ronaldo netted a brace, becoming the first player in history to score at six consecutive World Cups since Germany 2006. The goals marked a sharp turnaround after he was shut out in Portugal's opener against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Speaking after the match, Ronaldo said he had no doubts about his ability. "I strongly believe in what I do," he said. "My career has always been like this, and nothing is going to change."

He shrugged off criticism over his recent struggles, saying, "We cannot control what comes from the outside. I just follow my path."

Ronaldo also pushed back against the shifting narratives around his performances. "When things go well, they say 'he's the best.' When they don't, they say 'he should retire,'" he said. "But my teammates and I gave the right answer, just as we wanted."

Asked about a potential showdown with Golden Boot leader Lionel Messi of Argentina, Ronaldo said, "Obviously, it's good," and added that his focus for now was on preparing for the next match against Colombia.

Ronaldo's brace has heated up the Golden Boot race. Messi leads with five goals, while Erling Haaland of Norway and Kylian Mbappe of France are close behind with four each. Rising star Lamine Yamal of Spain also scored his first World Cup goal recently.

Portugal moved to the top of Group K with the result. They are level on points with Colombia — one win and one loss each — but hold the edge on goal difference. A victory over Colombia on June 28 would secure Portugal's place in the round of 32.


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