Pedro Neto starts as Cristiano Ronaldo makes World Cup history in Portugal win | News | Official Site

Chelsea winger Pedro Neto started for Portugal as Cristiano Ronaldo made FIFA World Cup history during an emphatic 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan in Houston.

Having claimed an assist in Portugal's opening game – a 1-1 draw against DR Congo – Neto kept his place in the attack alongside Bruno Fernandes, former Blue Joao Felix and Ronaldo.

And it took just six minutes for Roberto Martinez's side to break the deadlock, as Joao Cancelo crossed for Ronaldo to rifle home a finish at the near post. The goal ensures the 41-year-old stands alone as the only player to have scored in six World Cups.

Paris Saint-Germain full-back Nuno Mendes doubled Portugal's advantage via a free-kick in the 17th minute, but Uzbekistan appeared to have fashioned a route back into the game when Azizjon Ganiev whipped an outstanding finish from distance into the top corner.

However, following a VAR review for a challenge from Abbosbek Fayzullaev on Joao Cancelo in the lead-up to the goal, it was chalked off for a foul on the Portuguese defender.

It proved an important moment in the contest as, soon after, Ronaldo completed his brace with a clinical drive following an intelligent Fernandes through ball.

With a commanding lead established and Portugal's final group game to come on Sunday, Neto was substituted at the half-time interval. Francisco Conceicao was his replacement.

In the second period, Portugal fashioned several further chances to add to their lead. Yet it was an own goal from Abduvohid Nematov, forced after a long throw from Nelson Semedo, that led to their fourth of the evening.

Ronaldo completed the full game and had opportunities to seal his hat-trick, but the fifth goal of the night came from the right boot of Rafeal Leao, who swept home a stunning finish from inside the penalty area to round off Portugal's victory.

The win moves Portugal to the top of Group K, with four points collected from their opening two World Cup fixtures. However, Colombia can regain top spot later this evening if they overcome DR Congo.