Portuguese star forward Cristiano Ronaldo is now the sole owner of the record for most goals scored in international matches. Ronaldo made history on Tuesday with a brace in Portugal’s 2-1 World Cup Qualifiers win against Ireland.
Entering the match, Ronaldo had 109 international goals next to his name, tying him with Iran’s Ali Daei. The new Manchester United player didn’t have to wait too long for an opportunity to break the record as Portugal was awarded a penalty in the 15th minute. Ronaldo stepped up to take the kick but had his shot saved by Ireland’s goalie Gavin Bazunu.
Portugal then fell behind late in the first half and struggled to create chances for the better part of the second period before Ronaldo took over the game. The 36-year-old first scored in the 89th minute to give Portugal the equalizer and break the tie with Daei. He then added another goal in extra time to seal the win for his country and increase his international goals tally to 111.
“This record is mine, and it is unique,” Ronaldo told reporters after the match. “I’m extremely happy, and it’s another one for my career.”
Cristiano Ronaldo previously broke the record for most European Championships goals at EURO 2020 in June, when he netted five times and took home the tournament’s Golden Boot. He also became the only player to both appear and score on five different Euros.
Ronaldo made a total of 180 appearances on the international stage with Portugal and helped his country win the UEFA European Championship in 2016.
