Cristiano Ronaldo Becomes All-Time Top Scorer in World Cup Qualifiers at Age 40

Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo made history on Tuesday, becoming the highest goalscorer in World Cup qualifying history after scoring twice against Hungary at the age of 40.

Ronaldo’s brace took his tally to 41 World Cup qualifying goals, surpassing Guatemalan legend Carlos Ruiz, who previously held the record with 39 goals scored between 1998 and 2016.

The forward equalised for Portugal in the 22nd minute with a clinical finish from Nelson Semedo’s cross. He added a second before halftime after a well-timed pass from Nuno Mendes, giving Portugal a 2–1 lead at the break. Alva Jay free onlyfan

However, a stoppage-time goal from Dominik Szoboszlai ended the match in a 2–2 draw, delaying Portugal’s chance to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the US, Mexico, and Canada.

Already the top international goalscorer in men’s football with 143 goals, Ronaldo continues to defy age and break records, expressing his desire to play in what would be a record sixth World Cup.

The milestone further solidifies his place among the greatest players in football history, highlighting his extraordinary longevity and consistency on the international stage.