Cristiano Ronaldo silenced his critics in spectacular fashion as the Portugal captain became the first player to score in six different FIFA World Cup tournaments, headlining another action-packed day at the 2026 World Cup.
The 41-year-old forward scored twice in Portugal’s emphatic 5-0 demolition of Uzbekistan, responding to doubts about his role in the team following a disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their opening Group K fixture.
Ronaldo wasted little time making his mark, opening the scoring after just six minutes with a superb half-volley from Joao Cancelo’s cross before adding a second before halftime after latching onto a perfectly weighted through ball from Bruno Fernandes. His landmark performance came as fellow global stars such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Vinicius Junior and Harry Kane continue to light up the tournament.
Elsewhere in Group K, Colombia booked their place in the knockout phase with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo in Guadalajara. Backed by a passionate crowd, the South Americans dominated proceedings but were repeatedly frustrated before Daniel Munoz finally broke the deadlock in the 76th minute.
The Crystal Palace wing-back benefited from Juan Fernando Quintero’s intelligent pass before seeing his left-footed effort take a decisive deflection that wrong-footed goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi and crept into the net. The result secured Colombia’s second consecutive victory and guaranteed their place in the last 32, while DR Congo must now defeat Uzbekistan in their final group match to retain any hope of progression.
In Group L, Croatia revived their World Cup campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Panama in Toronto. Substitute Ante Budimir proved the difference, calmly converting Josip Stanisic’s low cross nine minutes into the second half after Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic made key attacking adjustments during the interval.
The win not only handed Croatia their first points of the tournament but also ensured captain Luka Modric celebrated his 200th international appearance with victory. Croatia now know that a win over Ghana in their final group match will secure a place in the knockout rounds.
Panama, meanwhile, became the latest team to be eliminated after suffering a second consecutive defeat. Their pace and attacking intent troubled Croatia during a goalless first half, but they were unable to find a breakthrough when it mattered most.
Earlier, England were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Ghana in a result that brought the Three Lions back down to earth after their impressive opening victory over Croatia. Ghana’s disciplined defensive structure and physical approach denied Thomas Tuchel’s side the space and creativity that had been on display in their tournament opener.
England manager Thomas Tuchel admitted the dramatic win over Croatia would have delighted supporters, but this encounter provided a stern reminder of the challenges awaiting his side. Despite failing to score, England remain top of Group L and are well placed to qualify for the last 32.
Midfielder Declan Rice sought to calm concerns after the match, insisting there was “no panic” within the squad. With Panama next on the schedule and qualification still firmly within reach, England remain confident of finishing top of the group despite a performance that exposed some attacking limitations.
