Cristiano Ronaldo continued to add to his remarkable legacy on the pitch as he struck a record-equalling goal in Portugal’s 3-2 victory over Hungary in their latest World Cup qualifier.
The 40-year-old striker scored from the penalty spot to equal the record for most goals in World Cup qualifying history, adding another landmark to his remarkable career.
The goal, his 39th in World Cup qualifying matches, brought him level with Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz at the top of the all-time list.
It also extended his tally to an astonishing 141 goals in 223 appearances for Portugal, reinforcing his status as international football’s most prolific men’s scorer.
Cristiano Ronaldo equalled the all-time World Cup qualifying goals
|REUTERS
Portugal were made to fight for their win at the Puskás Arena. Barnabás Varga struck first for the hosts in the 21st minute, but Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva responded 15 minutes later to level the game.
Ronaldo’s coolly converted penalty midway through the second half appeared to have put Roberto Martínez’s side on course for victory, only for Varga to grab his second goal of the night late on. Just when Hungary looked set to snatch a point, João Cancelo produced a decisive finish in the 86th minute to ensure Portugal maintained their perfect start to Group F.
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With two wins from two, they sit top of the table on six points, while Hungary remain third.
The result adds to what has already been a significant year for Ronaldo beyond football. In early August, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner became engaged to his long-term partner Georgina Rodríguez after nine years together.
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Portugal defeated Hungary on Tuesday
|REUTERS
The Spanish model confirmed the news on Instagram, sharing a photograph of her engagement ring with the caption: “ Yes I do. In this and in all my lives.”
Since first meeting in 2016, Ronaldo and Rodríguez have built a life together, raising two daughters, Alana and Bella.
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While the Portuguese forward had previously suggested marriage might not be a priority, the engagement marks a major step for the couple, who have become one of football’s most recognisable families.
For Ronaldo, the timing is fitting. While continuing to chase records on the pitch, he is also embracing new milestones in his personal life.
His engagement reflects stability away from football, while his relentless goalscoring highlights that even at 40, he remains central to Portugal’s ambitions.
As the qualification campaign unfolds, Portugal will look to maintain momentum, and with Ronaldo still breaking barriers, his influence on both the sporting stage and in the headlines shows little sign of fading.