Henry reverses Ronaldo criticism after two goals and an assist steer Portugal to 5-0 rout of Uzbekistan

Cristiano Ronaldo silenced his most prominent critic with a commanding two-goal, one-assist performance as Portugal demolished Uzbekistan 5-0 in Houston to strengthen their position at the top of World Cup 2026 Group K.

Thierry Henry, who had publicly called out the 41-year-old following Portugal’s goalless draw with DR Congo, reversed course after watching Ronaldo lead by example in a display that blended clinical finishing with conspicuous team play. Henry had been particularly pointed after the opener, accusing Ronaldo of blocking a potential chance for Bruno Fernandes with a run that prioritised personal opportunity over collective benefit. “The team needs to score, not you need to score,” Henry said at the time.

The moment that most impressed Henry against Uzbekistan came in the first half, when Ronaldo stepped away from a free-kick to allow Nuno Mendes to take it. The Paris Saint-Germain left-back scored, vindicating the decision and prompting an immediate change of tone from the 1998 World Cup winner.

“It’s so important — offside position, if you cross to him, it can be a tap-in,” Henry said. “Offside, then you make the team defend the box, then you arrive, not like the other day, he attacks the first post. And score. It’s what happens when you play like that.”

Henry also praised Ronaldo’s movement in the build-up to his own goals, drawing a comparison with a former Premier League great. “Look at him walking — Van Nistelrooy used to do that at Man United, to make sure when the ball comes you’re in front of everyone, and maybe you can score.”

The free-kick moment drew the most effusive praise. “I said the team has to score, not you — I love what he did at the free-kick. He surprised everybody. It’s a team-spirit guy, it’s how you lead your team and you share. Well done. It’s what I like to see.”

The result lifts Portugal clear in Group K and eases pressure that had built after the unconvincing DR Congo stalemate. For Ronaldo, who turned 41 in February, the performance offered a pointed rebuttal to those questioning whether he retains the selflessness required at international level.