Lisbon, Portugal — In a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match on Tuesday night, Cristiano Ronaldo showcased his enduring brilliance with a
historic brace for Portugal against Hungary, but a stoppage-time equalizer from Hungary's Dominik Szoboszlai denied the home side a crucial victory and an early World Cup qualification berth.
Ronaldo Breaks World Cup Qualifying Goal Record
The match at the José Alvalade Stadium saw the 40-year-old Portuguese icon break the all-time record for goals scored in FIFA World Cup qualifying matches. Ronaldo's two goals brought his tally in World Cup qualifiers to 41, surpassing the previous record of 39 held by former Guatemala international Carlos Ruiz. Ronaldo's overall career goal count now stands at 948.
A Tense Encounter
The match started with a setback for Portugal as Hungary's Attila Szalai scored in the 8th minute, ending a nearly seven-decade-long scoring drought for Hungary on Portuguese soil. However, Ronaldo quickly equalized in the 22nd minute before putting Portugal ahead with a second goal just before halftime.
Portugal seemed poised for victory, but Dominik Szoboszlai's late equalizer in the 91st minute secured a vital point for Hungary.
Implications for Qualification
Despite the draw, Portugal remains at the top of Group F in the 2026 FIFA World Cup European Qualifiers with 10 points after four games.
They hold a five-point lead over second-placed Hungary, with two qualification matches remaining. Portugal will now need to wait until the November international window to try and secure their qualification for the tournament in North America.
The draw also highlighted Portugal's reliance on Ronaldo's individual brilliance and some defensive vulnerabilities.
The qualification race in Group F is far from over, with Hungary in second place and the Republic of Ireland, who defeated Armenia 1-0, just one point behind. Portugal's next matches are against Ireland and Armenia in November.