Cristiano Ronaldo sets a new goal scoring record as Hungary denies Portugal
Cristiano Ronaldo made history by scoring two goals against Hungary, setting a new all-time record with 41 career World Cup qualifying goals. However, his heroics were undercut in the 91st minute when Dominik Szoboszlai scored an equalizer, holding Portugal to a draw and denying them early qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo once again wrote his name into the record books, but his scoring milestone was bittersweet as Portugal failed to secure their qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The 40-year-old striker scored twice against Hungary, pushing his tally to 41 goals in World Cup qualifying matches, surpassing the previous record of 39 held by former Guatemala star Carlos Ruiz.
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Despite Ronaldo’s efforts, a dramatic late equalizer from Hungary meant Portugal missed the opportunity to book their ticket to the tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, just moments after England had qualified from their own group.
Late drama snatches victory
The match in Lisbon was a tense, back-and-forth affair. Hungary stunned the home crowd by taking an early lead in the eighth minute through Attila Szalai, set up by Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai.
Ronaldo quickly responded, pulling Portugal level in the 22nd minute by connecting with Nélson Semedo’s low cross. He then secured his record-breaking 948th career goal and his 143rd for Portugal just before halftime, expertly finishing a delivery from Nuno Mendes.
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Portugal looked set for the decisive win until the 91st minute, when Szoboszlai scored a dramatic equalizer to rescue a point for Hungary and keep their own group aspirations alive.
Portugal still holds a comfortable five-point lead at the top of Group F with two matches remaining. Their next chance to secure qualification comes on November 13th when they face the Republic of Ireland in Dublin. Hungary remains second, one point ahead of the Irish side.
Players with most goals in World Cup qualifying
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal): 41
- Carlos Ruiz (Guatemala): 39
- Lionel Messi (Argentina): 36
- Ali Daei (Iran): 35
- Robert Lewandowski (Poland): 32
