Ronaldo’s Resurgence in World Cup
Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a strong response to his critics, scoring twice in Portugal’s 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan. The forward, aged 41, became the first player to score in six different editions of the World Cup, a historic achievement that followed a period of scrutiny. His performance was particularly notable after Portugal’s earlier 1-1 draw against DR Congo, where he had faced considerable criticism.
Ronaldo’s first goal came just six minutes into the match, a half-volley from Joao Cancelo’s cross. He added a second before half-time, converting a pass from Bruno Fernandes. Despite efforts to secure a hat-trick, including a shot cleared off the line by Abdukodir Khusanov, he finished with two goals. Other goals for Portugal included a free-kick from Nuno Mendes, an own goal by Uzbekistan goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov, and a late strike from substitute Rafael Leao.
Following the match, Ronaldo expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I’m back! I’m back!” He later clarified that the statement was for his critics, remarking, “only so they don’t forget – 23 years [doing so] like this.” He emphasized the team’s effort and confidence, noting that personal records are secondary to helping the team achieve its objectives.
Team Spirit and Managerial Support
Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martinez, praised Ronaldo’s role in lifting team spirits and maintaining standards after the draw with DR Congo. Martinez described the week as difficult, marked by what he called “unfair” criticism and noise. He highlighted Ronaldo’s leadership, stating, “Our captain is an icon, he is playing in his sixth World Cup. He is a role model that plays for the Portuguese national team, that works hard every day, that tries to improve every training session and with a great attitude on the pitch and also in the dressing room.”
Former England captain Wayne Rooney, a former teammate of Ronaldo’s, commented on the striker’s ability to respond to criticism. Rooney noted that scoring two goals at the World Cup at 41 is incredible and that Ronaldo’s response was typical of his career. He added that Ronaldo’s desire to be the best, while also being a team player, is evident.
Fabio Cannavaro, the Uzbekistan boss, also acknowledged Ronaldo’s continued high-level performance despite his age. Cannavaro remarked that Ronaldo’s presence at the World Cup at 41 demonstrates his hunger and enduring skill. He further stated that if given even a small space in the box, Ronaldo would capitalize on it.
Ronaldo’s World Cup Legacy
Ronaldo’s two goals against Uzbekistan brought his total World Cup goal tally to 10. This achievement places him among an elite group of players. He is the second-oldest goalscorer in World Cup history, behind only Roger Milla, who scored at 42 in 1994. Ronaldo also joins Michael Laudrup and Lionel Messi as one of only three players to be both their country’s oldest and youngest goalscorer at the World Cup, for nations with more than one goalscorer.
His World Cup appearance in the match against Uzbekistan means he has surpassed Paolo Maldini’s appearances and is now level with Miroslav Klose. Ronaldo and Messi also share the record for the longest gap between a player’s first and last goal in World Cup history, at 20 years and 11 days.
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane also weighed in, stating that Ronaldo was “never gone” and that his hunger and desire to score more goals serve as a great example to his teammates. Keane highlighted Ronaldo’s sharpness and one-touch finishing as admirable qualities. Portugal is set to face Colombia on June 28 to determine the standings in Group K.
Source: bbc.co.uk
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