- Ronaldo, 40, scored twice to reach 41 World Cup qualifying goals, breaking Carlos Ruiz’s record of 39.
- Portugal were denied early qualification after a 91st-minute equaliser from Hungary’s Dominik Szoboszlai.
- The match ended 2-2 in Lisbon, keeping Portugal top of Group F with two games remaining.
- Portugal’s next chance to qualify will be against the Republic of Ireland on November 13.
Cristiano Ronaldo once again made history after netting his 41st World Cup qualifying goal, surpassing former Guatemala striker Carlos Ruiz, who previously held the record with 39 goals.
The Portuguese captain, aged 40, continues to show his remarkable longevity and hunger for goals, extending his incredible tally to 948 career goals and 143 international strikes.
Portugal appeared to be on their way to securing qualification for next summer’s World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
However, in a dramatic finish, Dominik Szoboszlai scored in the 91st minute, earning Hungary a 2-2 draw and delaying Portugal’s celebrations.
Despite the setback, Portugal still sits comfortably at the top of Group F, holding a five-point lead with two matches left.
The visitors, Hungary, took an early lead in the 8th minute when Attila Szalai found the back of the net after a perfect setup from Szoboszlai.
Portugal hit back as Ronaldo equalised in the 22nd minute, finishing neatly from a Nelson Semedo cross.
Just before half-time, Ronaldo struck again, his second of the night, calmly slotting home after a precise delivery from Nuno Mendes, putting Portugal 2-1 up.
But Hungary refused to give up. Szoboszlai’s late goal ensured the points were shared and kept Hungary’s hopes of topping the group alive.
Portugal will look to seal qualification on November 13 when they face the Republic of Ireland in Dublin.
Meanwhile, Hungary remain second, one point ahead of Ireland, who beat Armenia 1-0 in their own qualifier.
Ronaldo’s international career, spanning 22 years, has seen him lift major trophies, including the Euro 2016 title and two UEFA Nations League titles.
Although the World Cup trophy still eludes him, the veteran forward remains determined and continues rewriting football history with every match.
