BUDAPEST, Hungary (BN24) — Cristiano Ronaldo added another milestone to his legendary career Tuesday, becoming the all-time top scorer in FIFA World Cup qualifying matches after netting twice in Portugal’s 2-2 draw with Hungary.
Ronaldo, 40, scored his 40th and 41st goals in World Cup qualifiers, surpassing former Guatemala striker Carlos Ruiz, who held the previous record of 39 goals scored between 1998 and 2016.
The Portugal captain equalized in the 22nd minute, converting a cross from Nelson Semedo. He added a second before halftime, finishing from close range after a pass by Nuno Mendes, giving Portugal a 2-1 lead.
Hungary’s Dominik Szoboszlai scored a stoppage-time equalizer, delaying Portugal’s bid to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup, which the United States, Mexico, and Canada will jointly host.
Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, already holds the record for most international goals in men’s football. His tally now stands at 143 in 205 appearances. He has expressed hope of playing in a record sixth World Cup, which would make him the first male player to do so.
Despite the result, Ronaldo’s latest achievement underscores his longevity and enduring impact at the international level, nearly two decades after his World Cup debut in 2006.
Portugal remains in a strong position to qualify, but will have to wait for future fixtures to confirm their place in the expanded 48-team tournament.
