Past plus present: 5 dream striker pairings at the World Cup

#3 Cristiano Ronaldo and Eusebio (Portugal)

Two biggest Portuguese footballers of all time

Coming into Russia 2018, Cristiano Ronaldo's record read three goals from thirteen appearances across three World Cups. In only one match in this edition, he has already matched that tally of three goals. Such is the genius of the man widely regarded as the best player of his generation.

His record at World Cups before this one can only be called an aberration. In 2006 he had the likes of Luis Figo and Deco to play with - but he himself was still a developing talent. From World Cup 2010 onwards he has been the focal point of the Portugal team with little or no support from other players. His stats would certainly read better would he have had someone like Eusebio to play alongside.

Eusebio is considered as one of the best players to have never won the World Cup. He was instrumental in Portugal finishing third at the 1966 World Cup - their best ever position and that too in their debut at the big stage. He was the highest goal scorer in that tournament with nine goals and also won the Bronze Ball award.

He was nicknamed the Black Panther for his speed and athleticism. A professional career record of 733 goals in 745 matches would be any player's envy. Unfortunately, 1966 was the only World Cup that Portugal qualified for and Eusebio did not get a second chance to shine at the biggest stage of them all.

Ronaldo and Eusebio in one team would send shivers down the spines of even the best defence in the world. They would play together in a front two with Eusebio on the right and Ronaldo on the left.

Notable mention- Luis Figo: He captained Portugal a the 2006 World Cup as they reached the semi-finals (their best finish since 1966). While not an outright striker, Figo could play on the wings with Ronaldo in the centre.