Ronaldo scores in record fifth Cup
Cristiano Ronaldo closed his eyes, took in a deep breath and then made World Cup history.
The Portugal striker became the first male player to score at five World Cups with his 65th-minute penalty kick in a 3-2 win over Ghana on Thursday.
Days after his contract was terminated at Manchester United following a tell-all interview, he let his soccer do the talking to start what likely is his final World Cup.
“This was a beautiful moment,” Ronaldo said. “The world record, the only player to score in five World Cups, makes me very proud.”
Wheeling away after the ball struck the back of the net to give Portugal a 1-0 lead, a smiling Ronaldo performed his usual leap and swivel in the air before getting mobbed by teammates.
He has scored in every World Cup since his first in 2006, when a penalty against Iran started his run of goals in the tournament that’s up to eight in 18 matches. He has a men’s-record 118 international goals.
“Cristiano is a phenomenon, a legend,” Portugal coach Fernando Santos said. “In 50 years, we will continue
to talk about him.”
Brazil 2, Serbia 0: With Neymar limping off the field with a sprained ankle, Richarlison came through for the “Selecao.” A spectacular acrobatic kick followed an easy tap-in from close range as Richarlison scored both of Brazil’s goals in its opening victory.
It’s unclear whether Neymar
would be available to play in the next match Monday against Switzerland.
Brazil, trying to win its first World Cup in two decades, is unbeaten in its last 20 opening games, with 17 victories. It has finished first in its group in the last 10 World Cups. Switzerland 1, Cameroon 0: Breel Embolo promised he wouldn’t celebrate if he scored for the Swiss team against his country of birth, and he kept his word. It turned out to be the only goal of the match.
South Korea 0, Uruguay 0: Another favored team failed to impress in the early stages, as South American power Uruguay stumbled to a scoreless draw.