Pakistan Overview

Cristiano Ronaldo was in no mood to discuss his long-time rival Lionel Messi despite silencing his own doubters with a vintage performance at the 2026 World Cup. While the legendary forward netted twice in Portugal's dominant victory over Uzbekistan, an awkward post-match exchange in the mixed zone still drew plenty of attention.

The 2026 World Cup is underway and so is the race for the prestigious Golden Boot - the award given to the tournament's top scorer. There's a long road ahead as 48 nations battle for the top prize, but which star will take home the illustrious award? Here are GOAL's predicted candidates for the prize as we keep track of the tournament's most prolific stars

Cristiano Ronaldo was in a defiant mood after leading Portugal to a dominant 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan, insisting his side have truly arrived at the 2026 World Cup. The legendary forward silenced his detractors in Houston with a clinical double that secured three vital points for the Selecao.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal answered their critics in style as they ran out 5-0 winners over Uzbekistan to record their first victory of the 2026 World Cup. Ronaldo netted twice to become his country's top goal-scorer in finals history, while a fine free-kick from Nuno Mendes, a second-half own goal from Abdukodir Khusanov and a late strike from substitute Rafael Leao ensured Roberto Martinez's side bounced back from their disappointing opening draw with DR Congo.