Decoding players with most goals in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese football legend, entered record books in international football on October 14. The Portugal ace set a new record for the most goals scored in FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Ronaldo achieved the landmark by scoring two goals in his side’s World Cup qualifying contest against Hungary. Ronaldo, who is the highest scorer in men’s international football, attained another milestone in his illustrious career.

Ronaldo scores twice in Portugal’s clash against Hungary

The 40-year-old Ronaldo scored twice against Hungary, as mentioned. The match in Lisbon saw Hungary take an eighth-minute lead with a goal from Attila Szalai after he was set up by Liverpool midfielder Dominic Szoboszlai. But Ronaldo pulled Portugal level in the 22nd minute from six yards out. This was after the Al-Nassr star connected with Nelson Semedo’s low cross from the right.

Ronaldo got his 2nd goal for Portugal just before half-time. A composed finish from Nuno Mendes’ delivery saw him hand his side a 2-1 lead. Just when Portugal were on brink of winning, Szoboszlai’s late equaliser kept Hungary’s hopes of winning the group alive. His 91st-minute goal spoiled Portugal’s party.

Despite this setback, Portugal continue to lead Group F with a five-point cushion and two matches remaining.

Ronaldo breaks Ruiz’s record

With his two goals, the veteran forward saw his World Cup qualifying goals tally get to 41. He surpassed former Guatemala striker Carlos Ruiz’s record of 39 World Cup qualifying goals. Lionel Messi is next on the list with 36 qualifying goals. Messi is above Iran’s Ali Daei (35) and Robert Lewandowski of Poland (32).

Ronaldo races to 948 career goals

Ronaldo now owns 948 career goals. He has scored 804 club career goals to date. Meanwhile, he has raced to 143 goals for Portugal in 225 matches. He is two shy of 950 career goals.