Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo and Argentina’s Lionel Messi once again stole the global spotlight on Tuesday night as the two icons continue to assists their individual country on the international stage.
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Ronaldo Scores Twice, Sets New World Cup Qualifying Record
Portugal were minutes away from sealing their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup before a late goal from Hungary denied them victory, settling for a 2–2 draw in Lisbon.
Cristiano Ronaldo, however, made history once again. The 39-year-old captain scored twice, setting a new all-time record for most goals in World Cup qualifying history with 41 goals in 50 matches.
His first strike broke a tie with Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz (40 goals), while his second extended his record. Ronaldo’s brace came after Attila Szalai had opened the scoring for Hungary in the eighth minute.
The veteran forward quickly responded, netting twice before half-time to give Portugal a 2–1 lead. However, in stoppage time, Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai equalized for Hungary, delaying Portugal’s qualification party.
Portugal Stay Top, Ronaldo Nears 1,000 Career Goals
Portugal remain firmly in control of their qualifying group with 10 points from four games, while Hungary trail on five points.
The goals took Ronaldo’s career tally to a staggering 948 goals for club and country, continuing his incredible longevity at the elite level. He has now scored five or more goals in five of six World Cup qualifying cycles.
With two qualifying matches remaining (against Ireland and Armenia in November), Roberto Martínez’s side can officially book their ticket to the expanded 48-team tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Ronaldo, who will be 41 when the competition begins next summer, remains determined to lead Portugal on the biggest stage once more.
“It’s no secret that representing the National Team means a lot to me, and that’s why I’m so proud to have achieved this unique milestone for Portugal,” Ronaldo wrote on Instagram.
“Thank you to everyone who helped me get here. See you in November to finalise World Cup qualification!”
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Messi Masterclass as Argentina Thrash Puerto Rico 6–0 in Miami
Meanwhile, in the United States, Lionel Messi produced another moment of magic as Argentina thrashed Puerto Rico 6–0 in a rescheduled friendly at DRV PNK Stadium, home of Inter Miami.
Originally set to be played in Chicago on Monday, the match was relocated due to low ticket sales and local immigration crackdowns, according to officials.
Playing on familiar turf, Messi dazzled by assisting two goals and helping to orchestrate another in a dominant performance.
He flicked a clever lob to set up Gonzalo Montiel’s opener and later provided a delightful back pass for Lautaro Martínez’s second goal in the 83rd minute.
“It’s Always a Joy When Messi Plays” – Coach Scaloni
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Messi had been rested for the earlier 1–0 win over Venezuela but was eager to feature against Puerto Rico.
“Yesterday I asked him if he was ready to play, and he said yes. It’s always a joy for us,” Scaloni said.
“He trained with us last week, and then we decided not to use him against Venezuela. We had Lautaro [Martínez] and Julián [Álvarez], and he was able to play this match.”
“I imagine both he and Rodrigo [De Paul] felt at home on the pitch where they play.”
Alexis Mac Allister also scored twice, while Argentina benefited from an own goal midway through the second half.
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World Cup Preparations Continue
The friendly served as part of Argentina’s World Cup preparations, with the tournament scheduled for June 11 to July 19, 2026 across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
On the same day, U.S. President Donald Trump made headlines by again threatening to relocate World Cup matches, this time those slated for Boston, citing alleged “unrest” in parts of the city.
