Man Utd can no longer count on Ronaldo, but Portugal can

The 37-year-old striker won and converted a penalty to break the deadlock in what was ultimately a thrilling 3-2 win over Ghana on Thursday, becoming the first player to score at five World Cup finals. As Ronaldo leapt into the air and fell back down to earth, tens of thousands of fans in Stadium 974 imitated his signature celebratory roar, his explosive interview far from their thoughts.

Ronaldo's team-mates lavished him with praise after the game, with Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva delighted to be able to rely on the striker's contributions. "He's special because he's one of the best of all time, playing in his fifth World Cup, and he's still able to help us a lot," said Silva.

"He proved it again today and we are very happy we can still count on him. Not just the goal but he worked a lot for the team." Ronaldo, whose first goal at a World Cup came back in 2006 against Iran, netted in each edition since and now again in Qatar after tumbling in the box under pressure from Mohammed Salisu.

It was a cheap penalty - some would say a dive but Ronaldo had been harshly denied a goal in the first half when he was penalised for a dubious foul. Ronaldo's big moment arrived after a week of turmoil, caused by his explosive interview in which he blasted his club Manchester United and coach Erik ten Hag.

The Portugal talisman's 192nd international appearance was one of the most eagerly awaited. Now unattached, this was his first chance to put himself in the proverbial shop window, although his glittering CV speaks for itself. Ronaldo's strike was his 118th for Portugal, further extending his all-time record for men's international goals.

"I think 'Cris' likes to work under that criticism from everyone, so I pray you all keep doing that because it gets the best from him, when you (the media) do that," said Bruno Fernandes, his former club-mate and Portuguese compatriot.