Portugal’s Ronaldo first man to score at six World Cups

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Cristiano Ronaldo became the first man to score in six different World Cup campaigns when he struck against Uzbekistan on Tuesday in Houston.

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The 41-year-old Portugal skipper, under pressure to find the net after a barren run at major international tournaments, pounced from close range after just six minutes to create a piece of World Cup history.

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It is testament to Ronaldo’s longevity, the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus superstar having scored his first World Cup goal in 2006, against Iran.

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Ronaldo faced flak after being largely anonymous in a disappointing 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo that started Portugal’s World Cup title bid in North America.

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In his previous 10 games at major competitions coming into the Uzbekistan match, he had zero goals and one assist.

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His travails in front of goal were in glaring contrast to the likes of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane.

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Ronaldo, widely recognised as one of the best players in football history, made his international debut in 2003.

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Now with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, he scored 28 goals in 30 league games this season.

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Ronaldo nearly struck after just three minutes in Houston, narrowly failing to make contact at the far post after a cross by Nuno Mendes.

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Ronaldo slapped the turf, but the frustration was to be only temporary.

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AFP

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