At 41 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to defy time and add new chapters to his legendary career. Portugal’s captain achieved yet another historic milestone at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first player in history to score in six different editions of football’s biggest tournament.
Against Uzbekistan in Portugal’s second Group K match, the veteran striker needed just six minutes to demonstrate his trademark goalscoring instinct. Meeting a pinpoint cross from João Cancelo, Ronaldo calmly finished to open the scoring and give the Seleção the perfect start.
Widely criticized after a quiet performance in Portugal’s 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star delivered the perfect response on the pitch. The goal made him the first footballer ever to score in six consecutive FIFA World Cups: 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and now 2026.
The strike also increased his remarkable tally to 144 goals for Portugal, further extending a record that reflects his extraordinary longevity at the highest level. With nine goals in FIFA World Cup finals, Ronaldo continues to enhance statistics that are already among the most impressive in football history.
Inside a packed stadium in Houston, Portuguese supporters celebrated the historic moment by chanting Ronaldo’s iconic "Suiii!", one of the most recognizable celebrations in world football.
Just hours after Lionel Messi set another World Cup record of his own, Cristiano Ronaldo reminded the football world that he remains one of the defining figures of this golden generation. Once again, the two legends continue to fuel a rivalry that has transcended eras and helped shape the history of the game.