HOUSTON: Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a stunning response to his critics, scoring twice as Portugal thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0 in a crucial Group K World Cup match and strengthened their bid for a place in the knockout stages.

The Portuguese captain, who had faced growing questions about his form and future, produced a vintage performance to remind the football world of his enduring quality. Leading from the front, Ronaldo was at the heart of a dominant display that saw Portugal overwhelm Uzbekistan from start to finish.

Portugal took the lead in the sixth minute when João Cancelo sent in a precise cross from the right wing. Ronaldo met it with a superb first-time.