Cristiano Ronaldo jointly becomes highest goal scorer in FIFA World Cup qualifications

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo became the joint highest goal scorer in the history of the FIFA World Cup qualifications.

The 40-year-old attacker struck the penalty place during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification match of his team against Hungary on Tuesday to get his 39th goal in World Cup qualifications.

He aimed the former Guatemala player Carlos Ruiz who had scored 39 times in 47 games. After Ronaldo and Ruiz, Lionel Messi of Argentina has 36 goals.

Most goals in FIFA World Cup qualifications

Carlos Ruiz (Guatemala) – 39

Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) – 39

Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 36

Ali Daei (Iran) – 35

Robert Lewandowski (Poland) – 32

Published on September 10, 2025