By Toby TAIWO
Wayne Rooney has heaped praises on Portugal captain C Ronaldo for netting a brace at the 2026 World Cup against Uzbekistan.
At 41, Ronaldo became the oldest player to score a brace in the World Cup.
The match ended 5-0 in Portugal’s favour.
He opened score for Portugal in the 6th minutes lashing onto to a cross to fire in inside the box.
The second also came through after his free kick was pushed onto Mendez who coolly scored
Rooney said:
“Congratulations to Ronaldo on a wonderful first-half performance and on becoming the oldest player to score a brace at the World Cup. We all know he’s 41 years old, but honestly, he doesn’t look it. What a player.
“For me, he’s the greatest Portugal has ever had.“I said it after the game against DR Congo, Ronaldo is playing really well, and today you can see the result.
“His movement, his sharpness and his understanding of the game have been outstanding. The goals were brilliant, but it’s everything else he’s doing that stands out.
“The link-up with Bruno Fernandes and João Cancelo has been excellent, and even that bit of football IQ that led to Nuno Mendes’ free-kick goal showed how influential he has been. He’s creating chances, bringing others into the game and leading by example.
“People keep talking about his age, but what I’m seeing is a player who is still making the difference at the highest level. An amazing first-half performance and another reminder of why Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the greatest players the game has ever seen.”
