An opportunity for Ronaldo.

At 0:00 on June 24th, Portugal will face Uzbekistan (VTV3, VTV6, TV360, FPT PLAY) in the second match of Group K at the 2026 World Cup.

Ronaldo is expected to shine when facing Uzbekistan - Photo: AFP

Like a spring compressed after countless criticisms in the opening match, Ronaldo is expected to "let loose" in the game against Uzbekistan.

Received much criticism

The 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening match was a disappointing result for the Portuguese national team. Roberto Martinez's side had a dream start with an early goal from midfielder Joao Neves in the 6th minute. However, squandering a series of good opportunities and a lack of concentration in the second half cost them dearly, resulting in a disappointing draw.

The focus of criticism after the match was on captain Cristiano Ronaldo. The 41-year-old superstar played poorly, lacking connection with his teammates. Therefore, it's understandable that Ronaldo received a score of 6.1 from Sofascore – the lowest in the Portuguese squad – and only touched the ball 25 times, taking just 3 shots.

Public pressure weighed heavily on Ronaldo's shoulders. Many believed he no longer had the physical fitness to lead the "European Seleção" attack in a demanding tournament like the World Cup . Therefore, the match against the less-fancied Uzbekistan was a golden opportunity for both Ronaldo and the Portuguese team to shed their psychological burden and reaffirm their status as a title contender.

When Ronaldo's "spring" is released.

Uzbekistan, led by star player Fabio Cannavaro, suffered a 1-3 defeat against Colombia in their opening match. Despite a hopeful equalizer in the second half by prodigy Abbosbek Fayzullaev, the Central Asian side quickly crumbled under the relentless pressure from their South American opponents.

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Uzbekistan's defense system reveals many gaps on the flanks and in counter-attacking situations when their stamina wanes. This will be an opportunity for Ronaldo to unleash his power. History has proven that the Portuguese superstar is always most dangerous when pushed into a corner and facing the most intense criticism.

With support from playmakers like Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva, and the energetic Joao Neves, CR7 is expected to have plenty of space to shoot against Uzbekistan's still-unstable defense.

Portugal remains a formidable attacking force, averaging 2.45 goals per game in their last 40 matches. If Ronaldo can rediscover his goal-scoring instinct and adjust his aim, a resounding victory is entirely within reach for Roberto Martinez's team.

In the other match of Group K, taking place at 9:00 AM on June 24th, Colombia will face the Democratic Republic of Congo. With 3 points earned after their victory against Uzbekistan, Colombia has a significant advantage to secure qualification one match early.

Bellingham and the England team at the 2026 World Cup - Photo: FIFA

Group L: The Three Lions are ready to roar.

At 3 AM on June 24th, England will face Ghana in their second match of Group L. After an impressive 4-2 victory over Croatia in their opening game under coach Thomas Tuchel, the "Three Lions" are full of confidence heading towards securing an early qualification spot.

England are showcasing a direct, fast-paced, and explosive attacking style of play, spearheaded by Harry Kane (who scored a brace in the opening match). Their opponents, Ghana, despite securing three points against Panama thanks to a late goal from Caleb Yirenkyi, still appear to be playing in a relatively stagnant manner.

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In terms of personnel, England will be without defender Trevoh Chalobah due to injury, while Marcus Rashford's participation remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Ghana suffers a major blow with key midfielder Thomas Partey absent due to immigration issues. With a star-studded squad and a superior team, a victory is well within reach for coach Thomas Tuchel's side.

In the other match of Group L, Panama and Croatia, who both suffered defeats in the first round, will face each other at 6:00 AM on June 24th. Croatia, with their superior class, must secure all three points to keep their hopes of advancing alive.

Panama is expected to continue its frustratingly defensive style of play with a large number of players behind the ball. However, Croatia, with the experience of a world runner-up, is still considered to have little difficulty securing a victory.

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THANH DINH

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/co-hoi-cho-ronaldo-100260623080225529.htm