After an anecdotal victory in the Nations League last June (on penalties against Spain), Cristiano Ronaldo obviously dreams of shining at a sixth World Cup next year in North America. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, 40 years old, has been a liability in his teams' play for many years (Al-Nassr has not won any major trophies) but continues to shake the nets with indescribable hunger.
“CR7” scored a double when Hungary came to Lisbon, in the home of its training club, Sporting (Estadio José Alvalade), on crosses from Nelson Semedo (22nd) and Nuno Mendes (45th+3). Attila Szalai opened the scoring for the Hungarians (8th).
The top scorer in the history of football (948 goals at the highest level), already the top scorer in history for all national teams (141 goals), becomes the record holder for goals in World Cup qualifying. Ronaldo has 45 goals and is ahead of former Guatemalan international Carlos Ruiz. Lionel Messi scored 36 goals in World Cup qualifying but will end his international career next summer.
No qualifier yet for Ronaldo's Portugal
The Portuguese thought they would obtain an almost decisive victory for qualification for World Cup 26, Roberto Martinez even making numerous changes (Ruben Neves, Bruno Fernandes and Pedro Neto came off after the hour mark). The Seleçao, however, gave in in added time on a goal from opposing captain Dominik Szoboszlai (91st).
Ronaldo's sixth World Cup is therefore not yet official. Portugal remains in a strong position in its Group F by appearing at the top of the standings with five points more than Hungary. However, we must not lose in Ireland on November 13 before finishing against Armenia.
