Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo has sent out a strong message after scoring twice for his country in a 2-2 draw with Hungary in World Cup qualifying on Tuesday night. His brace means that the 40-year-old superstar has now scored 41 times in World Cup qualifying history, moving past the record of 39 previously held by Guatemala striker Carlos Ruiz, but Portugal still have work to do to qualify.
Ronaldo makes more history with Portugal
Ronaldo has added yet another record to his extensive collection by scoring both of Portugal's goals against Hungary. The Al-Nassr ace equalised for Portugal in the 22nd minute and then netted again just before half-time. As well as making World Cup qualifying history, his goals also mean that Ronaldo has now scored 143 times for Portugal and 947 in total for club and country during his incredible career. He's previously stated he dreams of hitting the 1,000 goal mark before he finally decides to hang up his illustrious boots and his latest efforts have certainly moved him another step closer to reaching that aim.
AdvertisementPortugal star fires out message after latest goals
Ronaldo took to social media to celebrate his latest achievement and posted a strong message. While he was happy to celebrate, he also made it clear he's eager to secure Portugal's place at World Cup 2026 as soon as possible, posting: "It is no secret that representing the National Team means a lot to me, and that is why I am very proud to have reached this unique milestone for Portugal. Thank you to everyone who helped me get here. See you in November to seal the qualification for the World Cup!"
Ronaldo is an 'inspiration' to young people
Ronaldo's latest efforts have drawn huge praise from Reinaldo Teixeira, the president of Liga Portugal, who spoke about the ageing superstar after the draw with Hungary.
He told reporters: "Cristiano Ronaldo has an exemplary attitude; he is an inspiration to all young people and to all of us. May it last for many 40 years. We have a spectacular starting eleven and a bench full of quality. We lacked a bit of luck. We played well; if you hit the post twice, you're unlucky. We didn't win today, but we'll win because our team has a lot of quality and a lot of joy. Cristiano scored two, he was close to scoring three, but unfortunately we didn't manage it. But we'll win and go through."
Martinez complains Portugal 'couldn't kill the game'
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez was disappointed at seeing his side miss out on qualifying in a home fixture but urged his players to learn from the match when he addressed the media after the game. He said: "We had both goals, we started the second half very well, and there was a period where we couldn't kill the game. A game that had special meaning. It changes who we are a little. But it's important to remember that there are no easy games. It's a shame, we wanted to qualify in front of our fans. But it can be a great learning experience and a way to manage the final 10 minutes.
"We're a team that needs the ball, but we have a responsible team. We want to qualify, and that was probably trying to leave the game to close things out. It's a good lesson. We always need to have control of the ball and personality. We had two shots that hit the post, plus João Félix's. We had chances. We could have scored the winner to avoid being just one goal ahead.
"It's important to understand that we have a lot of competitiveness in the dressing room, and that it's important to always be ready. In November, we have two very important games, which create opportunities for a possible qualification call-up. It's better to have competitive games in Ireland and at the Dragão to continue doing what we want, to achieve the level we achieved in the Nations League."