Budapest, Sep 10 (V7N) – Cristiano Ronaldo has added another historic milestone to his illustrious career, equaling the record for the most goals in FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The 40-year-old forward scored from the penalty spot in Portugal’s 3-2 victory over hosts Hungary, netting his 39th goal in World Cup qualifying matches. Ronaldo has now matched the record previously held by Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz, who also scored 39 goals but in 47 matches, compared to Ronaldo’s 49.

Ronaldo already holds the records for the most international appearances and the most international goals in men’s football. This latest achievement further cements his dominance on the global stage.

In the match, Hungary struck first in the 21st minute through Barnabás Varga, before Bernardo Silva leveled for Portugal in the 36th minute. Ronaldo’s penalty in the 58th minute gave Portugal the lead, but Varga’s second goal in the 84th minute brought Hungary back. However, Portugal quickly responded as João Cancelo netted the decisive goal just a minute later.

Meanwhile, in another qualifier, France edged Iceland 2-1. Kylian Mbappé scored in the win, surpassing Thierry Henry on the all-time scoring list for France. Mbappé now has 52 goals in 92 matches, moving past Henry’s 51. Only Olivier Giroud remains ahead with 57 goals in 137 appearances.

END/SMA/AJ