Cristiano Ronaldo makes history at 2026 World Cup

Entering Portugal’s match against Uzbekistan Tuesday at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, two questions faced one of the favorites entering the tournament.

Would Cristiano Ronaldo be back in the starting lineup after a sluggish performance against DR Congo? And if so, would the Portuguese legend find the back of the net?

It did not take long for both of those questions to be answered on Tuesday, with Ronaldo making history in the process.

Ronaldo was indeed in the starting lineup for Portugal, as Roberto Martínez did make some changes but not one involving his captain. But the changes paid off immediately, as Portugal was on the front foot from almost the opening second of the match.

And then, in the sixth minute, Ronaldo indeed found the back of the net, making World Cup history in the process:

Using a lovely first-time touch with his right foot on a ball into the box from João Cancelo, Ronaldo drove a shot by the keeper, opening the scoring for Portugal.

And with the goal, Ronaldo became the first player in FIFA World Cup history to score a goal at six different World Cup tournaments.

Here is another look at Ronaldo’s historic goal:

As you might expect, his trademark celebration eventually followed after what looked to be a relieved moment with his teammates:

Ronaldo’s first World Cup goal came during the 2006 World Cup, when he scored on a penalty against Iran in a group stage match.

Portugal cannot clinch a spot in the Round of 32 today, but a win would move them one big step closer to the knockout round at the 2026 World Cup.