Having been marred by controversy in recent weeks, Cristiano Ronaldo has stated that he is "very proud" after making FIFA World Cup history with his goal against Ghana on Thursday.
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The 37-year-old continues to add to what is an already iconic football resume. Against the Black Stars, the Portugal captain was able to open the scoring by slotting in a 65th minute penalty, and in the process, became the first men's footballer to score in five different World Cup tournaments.
Ronaldo's spot-kick was the first of Portugal's three goals on the night as Fernando Santos' men came away from their opening Group H game with a 3-2 victory over the four-time African champions.
After the match, the ex-Manchester United striker expressed his delight at his latest feat.
"It was a beautiful moment, my fifth World Cup," Ronaldo said, as per Goal.
"I am very proud. We won. We started on a good foot. It's a very important win.
"We know in these competitions the first match is fundamental."
Ronaldo has proved to a controversial figure in recent weeks after he gave an explosive interview British broadcaster Piers Morgan, during which he lambasted United and many affiliated with the club.
Earlier this week, it was revealed that the Red Devils had decided to terminate their highest earner's contract in a mutual agreement, so the Madeira native perhaps went into the clash with the west Africans feeling the need to prove any naysayers wrong.
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The 2016 European champions had to suffer through a late Ghana resurgence during the match, though, but the Ronaldo and company were able to hold on and go top of the Group H table.
Portugal's next match at Qatar 2022 will be against Uruguay on Monday.
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