At 40 years of age and with more than two decades of professional career, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to break the mold. On Monday, in the 2026 World Cup qualifier against Bosnia-Herzegovina, the Portuguese star scored a brace that catapulted him to 41 goals in World Cup qualifiers, becoming the all-time top scorer in this category.
A new milestone that adds to his vast collection of records and allows him to surpass the previous mark of Carlos ‘Pescadito’ Ruiz, who held the throne with 39 goals. The scene took place in the 22nd minute, with a dry shot. And it was repeated in the 45+3′, with the determination that only he retains intact with the passing of the years. It was not only a victory for Portugal, it was further proof that Cristiano still has unfinished business with history.
With this new feat, CR7 has achieved his seventh great scoring record at absolute level: he is the top scorer in the history of professional football with 948 goals; the top scorer of national teams with 143 goals with Portugal; the historical leader of the Champions League with 140 goals; the top scorer of Real Madrid with 450; the top scorer of the European Championship with 14; and now, in addition, from now on, the top scorer of the World Cup qualifiers with 41 goals.
In addition, Portugal have 10 points with two games remaining, five more than second-placed Hungary, and qualification for the World Cup is really only a formality for Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates.
A true killer
Not long ago, after missing a penalty, the critics were calling for him to step aside. The response has been forceful: goals, leadership and an ever higher place in footballing eternity. “It’s no secret that representing the national team means a lot to me, and that’s why I’m so proud to have reached this unique milestone for Portugal,” the 40-year-old striker posted on his X and Instagram accounts.
“Thanks to everyone who helped me get here. See you in November to finish qualifying for the World Cup!” said the star.
Every time he steps on the pitch, Cristiano shows that ambition does not age, that goals do not have an expiry date and that his story is still far from being written in the past tense. In fact, ahead of this World Cup, as Javier Amaro said on Radio MARCA, it seems that “he is better than during the last European Championship.”
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