Cristiano Ronaldo sets goalscoring record in World Cup qualifiers

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, center, celebrates after scoring during a World Cup 2026 group F qualifying soccer match between Portugal and Hungary in Lisbon, Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Armando Franca)

LISBON — Another goal, another record for Cristiano Ronaldo.

The 40-year-old Ronaldo became the player with most goals in World Cup qualifiers by scoring a 22nd-minute equalizer from close range for Portugal against Hungary on Tuesday.

It was his 40th goal in a World Cup qualifying match, breaking a tie with former Guatemala player Carlos Ruiz.

Ronaldo has scored those 40 goals in 50 World Cup qualifiers.

It was also a record-extending 142nd goal in men’s internationals for Ronaldo and made the score 1-1 in Lisbon.