Ronaldo Finally 'Starts His Engine'... First Player to Score in 6 Consecutive Tournaments

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While top-tier strikers like Messi and Mbappe have been making waves, superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, who had been quiet, has finally awakened. By scoring multiple goals against Uzbekistan, he has become the only player to score in six consecutive World Cups.

Jeon Yeongmin reports.

[Reporter]

The 41-year-old Ronaldo, who faced harsh criticism that he was "past his prime" after failing to record a single shot on target in the first match on the 18th, sought redemption in the second match against Uzbekistan.

In the 6th minute of the first half, he connected with a cross from Cancelo with a right-footed one-touch shot, netting his first goal of the tournament and his 9th career World Cup goal.

Having become the first player in history to score in six consecutive World Cups, Ronaldo celebrated with his signature celebration.

With his momentum building, Ronaldo soared once again in the 39th minute of the first half.

As Fernandes threaded a pass between two defenders, Ronaldo found the back of the net with a right-footed shot, breaking the record for the oldest player to score multiple goals in a match, which had been set by his rival Messi just yesterday (the 23rd), in just one day.

Continuing to pose a threat with several more attacks, Ronaldo signaled his resurgence to the broadcast camera immediately after the 5-0 victory was secured.

[Ronaldo/Portugal National Football Team: I'm back! I'm back!]

[Ronaldo/Portugal National Football Team: When things don't go well, people say, 'You should retire, you're old now.' I think I've given a good answer to that.]

However, he showed visible discomfort and avoided answering when asked specifically about Messi.

[Ronaldo/Portugal National Football Team: (Lionel Messi scored two goals. Mbappe, Haaland, and you continue to prove yourselves.) Next. Next question. (Can I ask one more question?) It depends on what the question is. If it's not good, I won't answer.]

Immediately after the match, Ronaldo posted a celebratory photo on social media, receiving over 20 million likes.

Portugal, now 2nd in Group K with one win and one draw behind Colombia, which has two wins, will face Colombia on the 28th for the "Group Top Spot Decider."

(Video Editing: Park Chun-bae, Design: Jang Chae-woo)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.