2026 FIFA World Cup: Ronaldo Becomes First Player to Score in Six Editions, Says Team Success Matters Most

Cristiano Ronaldo added another historic milestone to his legendary career by becoming the first footballer to score in six different FIFA World Cup editions as Portugal thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0 in their Group K clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 41-year-old Portugal captain opened the scoring in the sixth minute with a close-range finish from Joao Cancelo’s low cross and added a second goal just before half-time, helping Portugal register their first win of the tournament after a 1-1 draw against DR Congo.

Ronaldo’s strike made him the first player to score in six World Cups — 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026. He also became the second-oldest goalscorer in World Cup history, behind Cameroon’s Roger Milla.

The veteran forward now has 10 World Cup goals, surpassing Portugal legend Eusebio’s tally of nine to become the country’s all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history.

Despite the personal milestones, Ronaldo stressed that team success remains his top priority.

“I’m very happy. But for me, the most important thing is our work and the confidence we showed. The team performed really well and improved a lot. Obviously, speaking personally, records are always nice, but my goal is always to help the national team achieve its objectives,” Ronaldo said after the match.

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez praised his side’s response following the disappointing opening draw.

“This was the response we had in the dressing room. There are times when you need a game like the first one 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. I’m very pleased with the result,” Martinez said.

Ronaldo’s record-breaking night came a day after Argentina captain Lionel Messi became the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history with his 18th World Cup goal against Austria.

Portugal’s dominant victory was completed by goals from Nuno Mendes and Rafa Leao, while Uzbekistan also conceded an own goal. The result boosts Portugal’s hopes of making a deep run in the expanded 48-team tournament as Ronaldo continues to rewrite football history.