Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice to become the first player in history to net at six different World Cups, powering Portugal to a commanding 5-0 win over Uzbekistan on Tuesday.

The victory was a sharp turnaround for Portugal, who had struggled to a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening group match. Against Uzbekistan, they looked a transformed side from the very first whistle.

Ronaldo rewrites the record books

Ronaldo broke the deadlock in the 6th minute, and by the 39th minute he had his brace, putting Portugal firmly in control at 3-0. His ten World Cup goals for Portugal also make him the nation's outright leading scorer at the tournament — surpassing the late, great Eusébio, who had held nine.

Nuno Mendes added a second before the interval, doubling the lead in the 17th minute to put the result beyond serious doubt before half-time.

A complete team performance

Portugal's dominance continued after the break. An own goal by Abduvakhid Nematov on the hour mark stretched the advantage to four, and Rafael Leão completed the rout with the fifth goal to seal a convincing group-stage statement.

With three points secured and goal difference boosted significantly, Portugal will head into their remaining fixtures with renewed confidence and momentum.