Ronaldo Sets a World Cup Record

Cristiano Ronaldo closed his eyes, took in a deep breath and then made World Cup history. The Portugal striker became the first male player to score at five World Cups with his 65th-minute penalty in a 3-2 win over Ghana on Thursday. Andre Ayew equalized for Ghana eight minutes later, but Joao Felix regained the lead for Portugal in the 78th and Rafael Leao added a third. Osman Bukari reduced Ghana's deficit in the 89th. The 37-year-old Ronaldo was looking to showcase his talents to potential new clubs after having his contract terminated at Manchester United this week, the AP reports. After wasting two good chances in the first half, he tumbled under a challenge by Ghana defender Mohammed Salisu to earn a penalty.

Wheeling away after the ball struck the back of the net, a smiling Ronaldo performed his usual leap and swivel in the air—the crowd roared his trademark "SI-UUU" as he did the pirouette—before getting mobbed by teammates. He has now scored in every World Cup since his first in 2006 and has a record 118 international goals. A penalty against Iran in 2006 started his tally of World Cup goals and it is now up to eight in 18 matches. The first soccer player to score at five World Cups was Brazilian forward Marta, who scored in the 2019 Women's World Cup in Paris. The feat was equalled at the same tournament by Canadan forward Christine Sinclair. In 2021, Marta became the first soccer player to score at five straight Olympics.

(More Cristiano Ronaldo stories.)