Thierry Henry praises Ronaldo ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Former France striker Thierry Henry praised Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo for his self‑less free‑kick decision during the 5‑0 World Cup win over Uzbekistan on Tuesday.

Henry said he admired how Ronaldo let teammate Nuno Mendes take the free‑kick, noting that this is how a forward like Al‑Nassr should lead by sharing.

“If one thing I wanted to mention, I said, the team has to score, not you, I love what he did at the free‑kick, yes, he surprised everybody, it’s a team spirit guy, it’s how you lead your team, and you share,” Henry told Fox Sports about Ronaldo.

“Well done. It’s what I like to see, Ronaldo,” he added.

Ronaldo now aims to guide Portugal to victory in their final group match against Colombia this weekend.

Portugal sits second in Group K with four points, behind leaders Colombia, who have six.