Portugal’s midfielder Bruno Fernandes said it was important for the team that Cristiano Ronaldo scored for them. Ronaldo, who wasn’t at his best in a 1-1 draw against DR Congo, was seen in beast mode against Uzbekistan on Tuesday.

The talisman opened the scoring for his team as he found the back of the net in the sixth minute after a brilliant ball from Joao Cancelo. The experienced striker then scored his second of the day in the 39th minute after an assist from his former Manchester United teammate Bruno Fernandes.

“It’s always special to get an assist with the national team, especially at the World Cup, which is a special tournament,” Fernandes said.

The brace from the Portugal captain, who was named man of the match, helped him become the first player to score in six different World Cups: 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026.

“It was important for our captain to score,” Fernandes said of Ronaldo.

“It was important for us that he scored. He’s our go-to player in attack. We’re very happy for him.”

Furthermore, Ronaldo is also now the second-oldest scorer in World Cup history (41 years, 138 days), behind Roger Milla in 1994 for Cameroon against Russia (42 years, 39 days). 

Meanwhile, Fernandes received the award for the best player of the Premier League in the last season. The midfielder said the team’s success is of paramount importance to him.

“What matters is that Portugal scores, whether it’s me or not,” he said.

Fernandes added, “We managed to score a lot of goals, and we’re happy about that. I’m here to set up my teammates up front — t’s part of my game — regardless of whether I score or not. I believe my moment will come, and that it will be at a time when it’s truly needed.”

Portugal will face Colombia in their final group game in Miami Gardens on Saturday.