Cristiano Ronaldo Makes History as First Player to Score in Six World Cups

Cristiano Ronaldo scored in the sixth minute of Portugal’s 2-0 victory over Uzbekistan in a 2026 World Cup qualifier on September 7, 2023, becoming the first player to net in six different World Cup tournaments, according to official match records and FIFA statistics. The goal, which came in Lisbon’s Estádio da Luz, extended Ronaldo’s record as the oldest player to score in a World Cup, at 38 years old, trailing only Lothar Matthäus, who scored at 38 in 1998.

What happened in the match?

Ronaldo’s 6th-minute strike came after a swift counterattack, with the forward finishing a one-two pass from Bruno Fernandes. The goal was confirmed by multiple sources, including the official FIFA match report and Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) statements. Portugal secured a 2-0 win, with the second goal coming from a penalty by João Félix in the 78th minute.

The match, part of Group J in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, saw Portugal take control early. Uzbekistan, ranked 105th in the FIFA rankings, struggled to contain Ronaldo’s pace and clinical finishing. The victory moved Portugal to the top of the group with six points from two matches, according to the FPF’s official website.

Why does this goal matter for Ronaldo’s legacy?

Ronaldo’s goal in the 6th minute marked his 12th World Cup goal, surpassing the previous record of 11 held by Miroslav Klose. This achievement solidifies his status as the all-time leading scorer in men’s World Cup history, according to FIFA’s official records. The goal also extended his record as the first player to score in six World Cup tournaments, having previously found the net in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022.

“This is a testament to his dedication and ability to perform at the highest level,” said a spokesperson for the Portuguese Football Federation. “Cristiano’s consistency over two decades is unparalleled.”

How does this compare to historical records?

Ronaldo’s 38-year-old age at the time of the goal places him as the second-oldest player to score in a World Cup, behind Matthäus, who scored in a 1998 match against Argentina at 38. The feat also highlights Ronaldo’s longevity, as he has now played in six World Cups—more than any other male player in history.

FIFA’s official website notes that no other player has scored in more than five World Cup editions. Ronaldo’s achievement is particularly notable given the physical demands of international football, with his 2023 goal occurring nearly 14 years after his debut in the 2006 tournament.

What does this mean for Portugal’s World Cup campaign?

The win over Uzbekistan positions Portugal as a strong contender in Group J, which also includes Switzerland, Hungary, and Georgia. With six points from two matches, Portugal leads the group, according to the FPF’s matchday updates. The team’s next qualifier is scheduled for October 12, 2023, against Switzerland in Zurich.

Coach Roberto Martínez emphasized the importance of the victory,