RONALDO MAKES WORLD CUP HISTORY IN PORTUGAL ROUT OF UZBEKISTAN

Cristiano Ronaldo wrote another chapter in World Cup history as Portugal thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0 in Group K on Tuesday, producing a dominant response to their opening draw.

The 41-year-old striker scored twice to become the first player ever to find the net in six different World Cup tournaments, leading a disciplined and ruthless Portugal performance.

Portugal were in control from the outset, creating wave after wave of chances and finishing with 17 attempts on goal as Uzbekistan struggled to contain their intensity.

Coach Roberto Martinez praised the tactical improvement from their opening match.

“We fought with our heart rather than our head in the first game. Today it was the other way around. It was very disciplined,” Martinez said.

Ronaldo could have completed a hat-trick but was denied late on, though his manager was full of praise for the veteran forward’s influence.

“I never worked with a player that no matter what happened today he has an incredible hunger to work the next day,” Martinez said.

Portugal now sit on four points and head into a decisive Group K clash with Colombia, while Uzbekistan remain on the brink of elimination.