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Ronaldo scores twice, Modric reaches 200 caps, England draws

6/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal beat Uzbekistan 2-0 in Houston, opening the World Cup second round.
Luka Modric earned his 200th cap, the fourth male player to do so, before being subbed after 81 minutes in Croatia’s 1-0 win over Panama.
England’s 0-0 draw with Ghana left both teams on four points in Group I, setting up a clash with Croatia.

History

Historical Context

The 2002 FIFA World Cup, held from 31 May to 30 June in Japan and South Korea, was the first tournament staged in Asia and the first jointly hosted. Brazil won their fifth title as Ronaldo scored twice in the final and claimed the Golden Shoe with eight goals, while host nation South Korea became the first Asian side to reach the semi-finals.

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Story summary

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal beat Uzbekistan 2-0 in Houston, opening the World Cup second round.
Luka Modric earned his 200th cap, the fourth male player to do so, before being subbed after 81 minutes in Croatia’s 1-0 win over Panama.
England’s 0-0 draw with Ghana left both teams on four points in Group I, setting up a clash with Croatia.

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