Cristiano Ronaldo further solidified his remarkable international career by adding two more goals to his WORLD RECORD tally, bringing it to an unprecedented 125 goals.
His stellar performance led Portugal to a 3-2 victory over Slovakia, securing their qualification for EURO 2024.
At the Estadio do Dragao, Goncalo Ramos opened the scoring for Roberto Martinez’s team after 18 minutes.
Ronaldo followed suit, netting his first goal from the penalty spot just 11 minutes later.
Read Also: Ghana’s Coach Chris Hughton Eyes Arsenal’s Nketiah Despite England Call-Up
This achievement marked another milestone for the 38-year-old, who had initially set the record in June 2021 after scoring a brace against the Republic of Ireland, surpassing Iran’s Ali Daei.
In the latter stages of the match, Slovakia’s David Hancko managed to breach the Portuguese defense, scoring their first goal in EURO qualifying.
However, Ronaldo wasn’t done yet. He secured his brace by tapping in a low cross from his former Manchester United teammate, Bruno Fernandes, sealing the victory for Portugal.
Before the game, Ronaldo was honored for reaching 200 international caps, highlighting his enduring impact on the sport and his unwavering dedication to his national team.
Portugal smoothly secured their spot in next summer’s tournament at the earliest opportunity, and it seems their 38-year-old captain will be leading the charge.
There were uncertainties surrounding Ronaldo’s international career after his emotional departure from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Additionally, he transitioned to the Saudi Pro League after leaving Manchester United, prompting questions about his elite-level football commitments.
However, he silenced the doubts by maintaining his position in the Selecao lineup and featuring in all six qualifying matches in 2023.
With his two goals tonight, he has now scored seven goals this year, bringing his total to 125 goals in 202 international appearances.
This achievement not only establishes a world record but also showcases his enduring prowess on the global stage.
Ronaldo’s relationship with FC Porto fans has been tense due to his past with Sporting Lisbon. However, during the qualifier at their Estadio do Dragao, a banner was displayed to honor his 200-game milestone.
Despite this positive gesture, one enthusiastic fan took it a step too far, dashing onto the pitch to snap a selfie with the five-time Champions League winner.
Pitch invader hits siuu in front of the football’s greatest Cristiano Ronaldo. #Euro2024Qualifiers #NoBraDay
pic.twitter.com/KeFD6GdFZf
ADVERTISEMENT VLI — Castrooooo🇺🇸 (@bfcastrooooo) October 14, 2023Ronaldo remained unfazed, wearing a smile as the fan approached, shaking his hand before security intervened to manage the situation.
Meanwhile, under the guidance of Portugal boss Martinez, the team has excelled since his tenure post-World Cup, winning every game under his leadership.
In their seven Group J matches, the Euro 2016 champions have netted an impressive 27 goals while conceding only twice, with the rare instances occurring on Friday night against Slovakia.
