Cristiano Ronaldo has etched his name into the history books once again, becoming the first footballer in the world to surpass a remarkable milestone in World Cup qualifying. The Portuguese legend achieved the record during a match against Hungary in Lisbon on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.

Ronaldo's hunger for goals remains insatiable even at 40 years old. His first goal against Hungary, scored in the 22nd minute, marked his 40th in World Cup qualifiers, breaking the tie with former Guatemala player Carlos Ruiz. But he didn't stop there; before halftime, Ronaldo added another goal to extend his record to 41 goals in World Cup qualifying matches. He has played in 50 World Cup qualifying matches.

Beyond this unprecedented achievement, Ronaldo also extended his record as the all-time leading scorer in men's international football, now boasting an astounding 143 goals.

Despite Ronaldo's record-breaking performance, the match against Hungary ended in a 2-2 draw. A stoppage-time goal by Dominik Szoboszlai prevented Portugal from securing their spot in the 2026 World Cup with two games to spare. Portugal currently leads Group F but will have to continue the qualification process in November.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner continues to defy expectations with his exceptional longevity and unwavering commitment to the sport. Since his first World Cup qualifying goal in June 2004 against Latvia, Ronaldo has consistently found the net, setting a standard of excellence that few can match.

If Ronaldo participates in the 2026 World Cup, he will become the first player to feature in six editions of the tournament. He is also pursuing the milestone of 1,000 career goals.

Ronaldo's new record adds to his extensive list of accomplishments, including being the all-time top scorer in men's international football, the leading scorer in the history of the Euros, and holding numerous Champions League records. His influence extends beyond the field, with a massive social media following that makes him one of the most popular figures in the world.

Cristiano Ronaldo's latest record is a testament to his enduring talent, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence. As he continues to break barriers and set new standards, his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time is further cemented.