Ronaldo was heavily criticized in Portugal's 0-0 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo in the first match. He did not show his best form, missing opportunities, causing the Portuguese team to have an unsatisfactory match. However, in the match against Uzbekistan, Ronaldo showed a different face.
He scored a double, contributing greatly to Portugal's 5-0 victory. "This is a difficult week. The criticisms are very fierce, especially aimed at me. But after 23 or 24 years of playing football, I know how to deal with them.
The most important thing is that the team and we must be united with each other, as well as with our families, because those are things we can control. What comes from outside, we cannot. We know that when we don't play well, we are always criticized, especially me. But as I said, I'm used to it," Ronaldo admitted.
Two goals against Uzbekistan helped Ronaldo continue to extend the list of memorable milestones in his career. The Portuguese striker became the first player in history to score in 6 different World Cups, from 2006 to 2026.
At the same time, CR7 (C Ronaldo's nickname) raised the total number of goals in the World Cup finals to 10. This achievement helped him surpass legend Eusebio (9 goals) to become the player with the most goals in the history of the Portuguese national team at the World Cup.
Scoring at the World Cup is always special. We want to respond after what happened in the previous match, and we are very happy. Personally, setting a record is always great, but the goal is always to help the national team achieve its goal," Ronaldo shared.
At a World Cup full of top performances by players from Messi, Mbappe to Haaland, Ronaldo may take longer than others to make his mark, but he has once again proven that Portugal can always rely on him to create miracles. Even if he does it silently.
I just continue to do my job. I deeply believe in what I do and that God helps those who work hard. My career has always been like that. That will not change now," the Portuguese national team captain concluded.
In the last match of the group stage, Ronaldo and the Portuguese team will meet Colombia. If they win, the Portuguese team will win the top spot in the group.
