Ronaldo Tops All-Time FIFA World Cup Qualifying Scorers

Cristiano Ronaldo added yet another record to his legendary career by scoring in Portugal’s clash with Hungary, becoming the all-time leading scorer in World Cup qualifiers with 39 goals.

The Al Nassr captain found the net from the penalty spot in the 58th minute at the Puskás Aréna, moving level with Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz, who also scored 39 goals in qualifiers. 

Ronaldo now stands on the brink of taking the record outright in the next match.

Beyond his qualifying exploits, the 39-year-old extended his tally of international goals to 141, reinforcing his status as the highest-scoring player in men’s international football history. 

Across his career with club and country, Ronaldo has now reached 943 goals, leaving him just 57 away from the historic milestone of 1000.

Portugal, reigning Nations League champions, are aiming to secure top spot in Group F after opening their World Cup qualifying campaign with a 5-0 win over Armenia.

Hungary, meanwhile, entered the game following a 2-2 draw with Ireland.

Portugal lined up with Diogo Costa in goal, a backline of Rúben Neves, Rúben Dias, Nuno Mendes, and João Cancelo, midfielders João Neves, Vitinha, and Bruno Fernandes, with Pedro Neto, Ronaldo, and Bernardo Silva spearheading the attack.

Ronaldo’s latest strike not only kept Portugal in control of their qualifying campaign but also pushed the superstar closer to rewriting football history once again.