Ronaldo sets new record with brace as Hungary deny Portugal in late thriller

Cristiano Ronaldo once again etched his name into the record books, scoring twice to become the all-time leading goal scorer in World Cup qualifiers, though Portugal were held to a 2-2 draw by a resilient Hungary side.

Marco Rossi’s men got off to a dream start, taking the lead in the eighth minute when Dominik Szoboszlai’s precise corner was headed home by Attila Szalai. Portugal, however, hit back quickly through their talisman. Ronaldo latched onto Nelson Semedo’s pass to slot home the equaliser just 14 minutes later.

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The 40-year-old superstar showed no signs of slowing down, volleying in a superb finish from Nuno Mendes’ cross right before half-time to give Portugal the lead. Fernando Santos’ men looked poised to extend their advantage, rattling the woodwork twice through powerful strikes from Ruben Dias and Bruno Fernandes.

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Hungary continued to fight back and came close again when Szalai’s header struck the crossbar. Their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time as Szoboszlai pounced on a loose ball to slot home a dramatic 91st-minute equaliser.

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The result ends Portugal’s six-game winning streak but keeps them top of Group F. Their qualification hopes remain strong, though confirmation will have to wait until the next round of fixtures.

Must Know

Ronaldo’s brace takes his tally to 41 World Cup qualifying goals, surpassing Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz as the all-time leader. The Portuguese captain now has five goals in the 2026 qualifiers, maintaining his status as the nation’s top scorer. During his 78-minute display, Ronaldo fired seven shots—the most of any player on the pitch—once again proving his relentless hunger for goals, even as Portugal were denied a late win.