Ronaldo breaks new record as Hungary hold Portugal in WC qualifier
Ronaldo’s first goal made him the all-time top scorer in World Cup qualifying history with 40 goals, one ahead of Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz
Cristiano Ronaldo set a new record as the all-time top scorer in World Cup qualifying history with his 40th goal, but Portugal were denied an early ticket to the World Cup after Dominik Szoboszlai's stoppage-time goal earned Hungary a 2–2 draw in their Group F qualifier in Lisbon last night (14 October).
Attila Szalai gave Hungary the lead early on, but Ronaldo struck twice before halftime to put Portugal in front. However, Szoboszlai slid in at the far post in added time to snatch a dramatic point for the visitors.
Ronaldo's first goal made him the all-time top scorer in World Cup qualifying history with 40 goals, one ahead of Guatemala's Carlos Ruiz. The Portuguese captain now boasts 143 international goals in 225 appearances, both world records.
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Portugal dominated the opening stages, with Ronaldo missing narrowly in the fifth minute before Diogo Costa denied Roland Sallai. From the ensuing corner, Szalai headed home to give Hungary a surprise lead.
Ronaldo equalised in the 22nd minute, converting Nélson Semedo's low cross, and headed in again in first-half stoppage time from Nuno Mendes' delivery to make it 2–1 at the break.
After halftime, Portugal squandered several chances to seal victory. Semedo's shot was kept out, while Rúben Dias and Bruno Fernandes were both denied by the woodwork and the goalkeeper. Substitute João Félix also went close with a header.
Hungary continued to press late on, and Szoboszlai's last-minute finish from Dániel Lukács's cross ensured a share of the spoils.
Portugal remains top of Group F with 10 points from four matches, followed by Hungary on five. Ireland climbed to third with four points after beating 10-man Armenia 1–0, who stay bottom with three.
In Group I, Italy secured at least second place with a 3–0 win over Israel, taking their tally to 15 points from six games, three behind leaders Norway who have a perfect 18 points and a plus 26 goal difference compared to Italy's plus 10. Gennaro Gattuso's side must win big in their final match to overtake them.
