‘I’m back’: Ronaldo’s relief after double kickstarts Portugal World Cup push

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice in Portugal's 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan, marking a significant turnaround after a disappointing draw against the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This performance not only ended a goal drought for Ronaldo in major tournaments but also made him the first player to score in six different World Cups.

This achievement is crucial for Ronaldo, who faced intense scrutiny leading up to the match, as it reaffirms his role as a key player for Portugal and boosts the team's morale ahead of the knockout stages of the tournament.

Ronaldo's historic feat highlights his remarkable longevity in football, especially as he prepares for what may be his final World Cup. The ongoing discussions about his age and performance underscore the broader narrative of veteran athletes competing at elite levels, raising questions about the future of iconic players like Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in international football.