Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted that a FIFA World Cup knockout-stage meeting with Lionel Messi’s Argentina would be “awesome” after inspiring Portugal to a commanding 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan on Tuesday.
The 41-year-old captain, who came under scrutiny following Portugal’s opening Group K draw against DR Congo, responded in emphatic fashion by scoring twice in Houston. Ronaldo struck after just six minutes and added a second before half-time, with Nuno Mendes also finding the net from a free-kick.
An own goal by Abduvohid Nematov and a late strike from Rafael Leão completed the rout as Portugal moved to the top of Group K and strengthened their bid to reach the knockout stages.
Ronaldo’s brace also saw him make history as the first player to score in six men’s World Cup tournaments, further cementing his status as one of football’s greatest players.
The victory leaves Portugal on course for qualification and raises the possibility of a long-awaited World Cup clash with Messi’s Argentina. Despite dominating world football for nearly two decades, the two icons have never met in a major international tournament.
Asked about the prospect of facing his long-time rival, Ronaldo said he would welcome the occasion.
“I don’t know how to answer that, but it would be awesome,” Ronaldo told reporters after the match.
“The most important thing was today, winning to advance and being ready for what’s next. The main objective was to progress from the group stage, and we did it.”
The Portuguese skipper also addressed the criticism directed at him and head coach Roberto Martínez following the disappointing draw against DR Congo, a result that prompted questions about his place in the starting line-up.
“It was a very tough and difficult week, with public opinion being very harsh on all the players, especially on me and the coach,” Ronaldo said.
“But I don’t mind. I’ve been in this profession for 23 years. When things go well, people say Cristiano is doing great. When things go badly, they say Cristiano is retired and too old. It has always been like that. We responded well today.”
Ronaldo was less willing to engage in further discussion about comparisons with Messi and other leading stars, including Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, who are among the contenders for the tournament’s Golden Boot award.
“The most important thing is the team and staying united,” he said. “We cannot control what comes from outside. We know that when we don’t win, we get criticised, especially me.”
Portugal will conclude their Group K campaign against Colombia in Miami Gardens on Saturday, knowing a positive result could secure top spot and maintain their momentum heading into the knockout rounds.
