Portugal clinches win over Uzbekistan with Ronaldo double at World Cup 2026

Portugal needed a victory to revive its Group B campaign after a 1‑1 draw with the Congo. In the Los Angeles/ Houston match, 41‑year‑old Cristiano Ronaldo scored two goals, securing three points for the Portuguese side.

Uzbekistan, making its World Cup debut, entered the game after a historic first tournament goal by Abbosbek Fayzullaev against Colombia. Coach Fabio Cannavaro set up a disciplined, compact defence aimed at limiting Portugal’s attacking stars, but the team was unable to stop Ronaldo’s impact. Analysts noted that Portugal’s midfield, featuring Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha and Joao Neves, provided the creative base, while the squad’s overall fitness and recent club form contributed to the win.