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

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Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo made history on Tuesday by becoming the highest goalscorer in World Cup qualifying history during their clash with Hungary.

The 40-year-old struck twice — his 40th and 41st qualifying goals — surpassing retired Guatemalan forward Carlos Ruiz, who netted 39 between 1998 and 2016.

Ronaldo first drew Portugal level in the 22nd minute, converting Nelson Semedo’s cross, before adding a second before half-time from Nuno Mendes’ assist to hand his side a 2–1 lead.

A stoppage-time equalizer from Dominik Szoboszlai denied Portugal early qualification for the 2026 World Cup, to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Already the all-time leading international scorer with 143 goals, Ronaldo continues to defy age as he targets participation in his sixth World Cup.

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