Cristiano Ronaldo etched his name further into football history by scoring twice in Portugal’s 2-2 draw against Hungary on Tuesday, setting a new record for the most goals scored in World Cup qualifying matches. The 41-year-old attacker now has 41 goals in 50 qualifiers, surpassing the previous record held by Carlos Ruiz of Guatemala.
Ronaldo opened the scoring in the first half after Hungary’s Attila Szalai had briefly put the visitors ahead in the eighth minute. He then doubled Portugal’s lead before the break, demonstrating clinical finishing and composure in the penalty area. However, Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai’s late goal in second-half stoppage time denied Portugal victory, leaving the contest level at 2-2.
The draw leaves Portugal at the top of their qualifying group with 10 points from four matches, while Hungary sits second with five points. Portugal can secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup during the upcoming November fixtures against Ireland and Armenia.
The two goals bring Ronaldo’s career tally to 948 goals for club and country, highlighting his prolific scoring ability and longevity at the highest level. Notably, he has scored five or more goals in five of the six World Cup qualifying campaigns he has participated in.
As Ronaldo approaches his 41st birthday next summer and prepares for the expanded 48-team tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, expectations remain high that he will spearhead Portugal’s pursuit of their first-ever World Cup title. His record-breaking performance reinforces his status as one of the all-time greats and a crucial asset in Portugal’s tactical setup under manager Roberto Martinez.
