Cristiano Ronaldo Breaks World Cup Qualifying Record as Hungary Hold Portugal to 2-2 Draw

Cristiano Ronaldo made history once again, becoming the player with the most goals in World Cup qualifying matches. However, his record-breaking performance was not enough to secure Portugal’s early qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as Hungary earned a dramatic 2-2 draw in Lisbon.

The 40-year-old forward scored twice, taking his tally to 41 World Cup qualifying goals, surpassing former Guatemala striker Carlos Ruiz, who held the previous record of 39. Despite Ronaldo’s brilliance, a stoppage-time strike from Dominik Szoboszlai denied Portugal victory and delayed their qualification hopes.

Portugal needed a win to confirm their place at next year’s World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, following England’s 5-0 win over Latvia in Group K. They now remain five points clear at the top of Group F, with two games remaining.

Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Night

Hungary took an early lead in the 8th minute when Attila Szalai headed in a corner delivered by Szoboszlai after a misjudgment by goalkeeper Diogo Costa. Portugal equalised in the 22nd minute, with Ronaldo finishing Nelson Semedo’s low cross to claim his 40th World Cup qualifying goal and break the standing record.

Ronaldo struck again just before halftime, converting Nuno Mendes’ cross for his second of the night—his 948th career goal and 143rd international strike. Portugal dominated the second half, hitting the post twice through Ruben Dias and Bruno Fernandes, while substitute João Félix saw his efforts denied by Hungary goalkeeper Balázs Tóth.

Hungary’s Late Drama

Despite Portugal’s control, Hungary refused to give up. In stoppage time, Szoboszlai fired home from close range, levelling the score and keeping Hungary’s qualification hopes alive. The result leaves Hungary second in Group F, just one point ahead of the Republic of Ireland, who beat Armenia 1-0 in Dublin.

Ronaldo’s Remarkable Career

Across his 22-year international career, Ronaldo has guided Portugal to several historic triumphs, including the Euro 2016 title and two UEFA Nations League trophies. His closest World Cup run came in 2006, when Portugal reached the semifinals before losing to France.

Portugal’s next chance to secure World Cup qualification comes on 13 November, when they travel to face the Republic of Ireland in Dublin.

As Ronaldo continues to defy age and records alike, Portugal’s hopes of an early World Cup berth rest firmly on the shoulders of their legendary captain.