Ronaldo scores in sixth World Cup as Portugal top group: VAR controversy erupts

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10 days · 11 summary articles
Cristiano Ronaldo made history on Tuesday at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first player ever to score in six different editions of the tournament as Portugal crushed Uzbekistan 5-0 in their final group-stage match. The 41-year-old forward, who had faced criticism over his fitness ahead of the competition, silenced doubters with a composed finish in the 78th minute, extending his record tally of World Cup goals to 12 across six tournaments dating back to 2006.
Portugal’s emphatic victory ensured top spot in Group A, while England’s 0-0 draw with Ghana left Gareth Southgate’s side scrambling for momentum ahead of their final group game against Slovenia. Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz lambasted refereeing standards after two clear fouls by England went unpunished, telling reporters the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system had “gone for coffee.” Queiroz’s frustration echoed broader concerns about officiating at the tournament, with eight red cards already issued—prompting pundits to question the consistency of VAR interventions.
In Group B, Colombia secured their place in the knockout rounds with a 1-0 win over DR Congo, while Brazil prepared to face Scotland in a high-stakes encounter. Neymar, making his first appearance of the tournament after injury concerns, could inspire the Seleção to top the group if they overcome the Scots. Meanwhile, Germany, already qualified as group winners, will field Deniz Undav in their starting XI against Ecuador, rewarding the striker’s impactful substitute appearances.
The tournament’s expanded format, reintroducing the “best third-placed teams” rule for the first time since 1994, has drawn criticism for its complexity. French daily *Le Monde* described the system as “the worst format,” arguing it risks unfairly advantaging some sides over others.
Off the pitch, the U.S. men’s national team faces an existential question: striker Folarin Balogun’s eligibility hinges on birthright citizenship, currently under threat from a U.S. Supreme Court ruling expected imminently. The 23-year-old, the team’s top scorer at this World Cup, would lose his American status if the court sides with President Trump’s push to abolish the constitutional right.
As the group stage nears its conclusion, Ronaldo’s milestone, England’s stumbles, and the VAR controversy dominate headlines, while the tournament’s structural debates and off-field dramas add layers to a competition already rich in narrative.
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