Cristiano Ronaldo became the first man to score in six different World Cup campaigns when he struck against Uzbekistan in Houston on Tuesday.
The 41-year-old Portugal captain, under pressure to find the net after a barren run at major international tournaments, pounced from close range after just six minutes to create a piece of World Cup history.
It is a testament to Ronaldo’s longevity that the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus superstar scored his first World Cup goal in 2006 against Iran.
Ronaldo faced the flab after being largely anonymous in a disappointing 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo that kicked off Portugal’s World Cup title bid in North America.
In his previous 10 games at major competitions coming into the Uzbekistan match, he had zero goals and one assist.
His struggles in front of goal were in stark contrast to the likes of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane.
Widely recognized as one of the best players in football history, Ronaldo made his international debut in 2003.
Now with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, he scored 28 goals in 30 league games this season.
Ronaldo almost struck after just three minutes in Houston, barely making contact at the far post after a cross from Nuno Mendes.
Ronaldo hit the grass, but the frustration was only to be temporary.
