Cristiano Ronaldo added another feather to his already decorated hat by becoming the first player in the World Cup history to score in five different tournaments. The former Manchester United player reached this milestone after converting a penalty in the 65th minute of November 24 Group H match against Ghana.
Earlier, Ronaldo had the ball in the net but missed two early chances as Portugal dominated Ghana but were unable to break through.
The 37-year-old Portugal captain might have had two goals inside the opening 15 minutes but missed both opportunities. He found the net from close range in the 31st minute but only after the referee had blown his whistle for an infringement against him.
Ronaldo set new world record
He overtook Pele and Germans Uwe Seeler and Miroslav Klose, who each had four World Cup goals. Ronaldo also set a new world record with 118 international goals. The spot-kick was Ronaldo’s eighth career goal at the World Cup and comes after a tumultuous week that saw the star forward leave Manchester United after weeks of tensions with the club.
However, there was some debate over the penalty, which was awarded after Ronaldo crashed theatrically to the ground following minor contact with Ghana defender
Mohammed Salisu.
Andre Ayew raised hopes for Ghana with a 73rd minute equaliser but goals from Joao Felix and Rafael Leao ensured a winning start for the Euro 2016 champions. Osman Bukari scored a late consolation for Ghana.