Cristiano Ronaldo Breaks Records, But Portugal Postpones its Qualification to the 2026 World Cup
In an exciting match played in Lisbon, Portugal was on the verge of securing its place in the 2026 World Cup. However, a 2-2 draw against Hungary frustrated the aspirations of direct qualification, despite the outstanding performance of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite not achieving qualification this matchday, Ronaldo shone again, setting a new record in his impressive career.
Ronaldo’s first goal allowed him to surpass Carlos Ruiz of Guatemala as the top scorer in the history of World Cup qualifiers, reaching 40 goals. With his second goal, he extended his lead to 41 goals in 50 qualifying matches.
Ronaldo scored both goals in the first half, putting Portugal ahead after Hungary took the lead with a goal by Attila Szalai in the eighth minute. When Portugal maintained a 2-1 lead, Dominik Szoboszlai, Liverpool midfielder, scored in added time of the second half, securing the tie for the visitors and curbing the celebrations of the team led by Roberto Martínez.
The result left Portugal with 10 points in four matches, while Hungary placed second with five points. Qualification for Ronaldo and his teammates could be secured in the November window, when they play the remaining matches against Ireland and Armenia.
With these two goals, Ronaldo has a total of 948 in his career, adding those obtained in clubs and national teams. In addition, he has scored five or more goals in five of the six World Cup qualifying phases in which he has participated.
Ronaldo, who will turn 41 next summer, plans to be part of the team that will seek Portugal’s first world title in the world’s most important tournament, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
