Zlatan Ibrahimovic has taken a playful jab at Cristiano Ronaldo after the Portuguese superstar’s emphatic ‘I’m back’ statement during the 2026 World Cup. The Swedish legend questioned why the Al-Nassr forward felt the need to proclaim his return following a two-goal display in Portugal’s commanding win over Uzbekistan.

Ibrahimovic questions Ronaldo’s statement

Ronaldo made sure his message was heard loud and clear after netting twice in Portugal’s 5-0 triumph over Uzbekistan in their World Cup Group K encounter. After a frustrating opener where he failed to score in a 1-1 draw with DR Congo, the 41-year-old looked directly into the camera and declared, “I am back,” as Portugal collected their first three points of the tournament.

However, Ibrahimovic, who was providing analysis for Fox Sports, was unimpressed by the celebration. The former AC Milan and Barcelona striker, known for his sharp wit, commented sarcastically: “It was a match meant for goals. Portugal were always going to score several. And about his message, I thought he never left. I don’t get why he’s saying ‘I’m back.’”

Historic scoring run continues

Ronaldo opened the scoring in the sixth minute with a precise right-footed finish from a Joao Cancelo cross, before doubling his tally in the 39th minute after being set up by Bruno Fernandes. His brace makes him the second-oldest goalscorer in World Cup history at 41 years, behind Cameroon’s Roger Milla, who scored at 42 during the 1994 tournament.

The goals also ensured Ronaldo became the only player ever to score in six separate World Cup editions, beginning with his debut in 2006. Although long-time rival Lionel Messi has also featured in six tournaments, the Argentine did not score in 2010, leaving Ronaldo alone with this unique record. Nevertheless, Messi currently leads the overall World Cup scoring charts with 18 goals, compared to Ronaldo’s 10.

Potential clash with Messi

With Portugal edging closer to qualification for the knockout stages, anticipation has grown over a possible high-stakes encounter with Messi’s Argentina. When asked about the potential face-off, Ronaldo acknowledged that it would be a special moment but maintained that his focus remains on Portugal’s progress.

“I’m not sure how to respond to that. But yes, it would be incredible. For now, the most important thing was the win today, and we achieved that,” Ronaldo said.

Focused on ultimate glory

Despite Ibrahimovic’s light-hearted criticism, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star remains determined to lead Portugal toward World Cup success, adding to their 2016 European Championship crown. The team now aims for another victory to secure top spot in Group K, with a key clash against Colombia in Miami looming. Portugal will be counting on their captain to maintain his scoring momentum as they chase glory on the world stage.