Cristiano Ronaldo reminded the world on Saturday night why he still belongs on football’s biggest stage. In a ruthless display at Manchester, the 40-year-old legend struck twice as Portugal demolished Armenia 5-0 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier. João Félix matched him with a brace of his own, while the entire Portuguese attack looked unplayable.
Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Night
Walking onto the pitch, Ronaldo was tied with Lionel Messi at 36 goals apiece in FIFA World Cup qualifying history. Ninety minutes later, he had moved clear. Two classic finishes — one a trademark long-range strike that had the crowd on its feet — took his tally to 38, nudging him past Messi and planting him alone in second place on the all-time list.
Only Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz, with 39 goals from 47 matches, sits ahead of him now. But with Portugal’s qualification campaign far from over, few would bet against Ronaldo overtaking Ruiz in the coming months.
The All-Time Chart:
- Carlos Ruiz (Guatemala) – 39
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) – 38
- Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 36
- Ali Daei (Iran) – 35
- Robert Lewandowski (Poland) – 31
Among active players, Ronaldo now stands alone. Messi trails in second, with Poland’s Robert Lewandowski further behind.
Portugal’s Dominance
While Ronaldo hogged the headlines, this was a complete team performance. Félix’s movement and finishing tormented Armenia’s defence, Bernardo Silva orchestrated midfield with precision, and the backline barely broke a sweat. It was the kind of polished, clinical outing that has become Portugal’s signature in recent years — a reminder that Roberto Martínez’s men are not just reliant on their captain.
A Legacy Still Growing
Saturday’s brace also pushed Ronaldo’s international tally to 140 goals, extending his already untouchable record in men’s football. For a player who has seen and won nearly everything, his hunger remains startling.
What still eludes him, however, is the World Cup. Messi claimed his in Qatar in 2022, the crowning jewel of his career. Ronaldo’s trophy cabinet, overflowing with Champions Leagues, league titles, and the Euros, still carries that one missing piece.
At 40, he has signed fresh terms with Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr, proving he’s far from finished. The 2026 World Cup — spread across the United States, Canada, and Mexico — will likely be his last dance on the grandest stage. Messi too is expected to be there, setting up one final chapter in a rivalry that has defined an era.
The Road Ahead
Portugal, already looking strong in qualifying, know they have more than enough firepower to mount a serious challenge in North America. Whether or not Ronaldo finally gets his hands on the only trophy missing from his career is uncertain. But on nights like these, when he smashes records and silences any whispers of decline, one thing is clear: Cristiano Ronaldo is not done yet.
About the Author
Kajal is a staff journalist at Newstic.in, covering national and international news with a focus on business, technology, and culture. With a background in digital reporting and a keen eye for accuracy, she writes stories that combine depth, clarity, and relevance for today’s readers. Her work reflects Newstic’s commitment to credible, fact-checked journalism that informs and engages audiences across India and beyond
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