Cristiano Ronaldo made history yet again on Tuesday night, scoring from the penalty spot in Portugal’s 3–2 victory over Hungary to equal the all-time World Cup qualifying goal record.

The 39-year-old forward coolly converted a 58th-minute penalty to put Portugal 2–1 ahead, taking his tally in World Cup qualifiers to 39 goals which level with retired Guatemalan legend Carlos Ruiz. Lionel Messi and Iran’s Ali Daei, both on 36, now trail the Portuguese icon.

Unlike Messi, who played his final World Cup qualifier for Argentina in an emotional send-off over the weekend, Ronaldo still has time to make the record his own. Portugal face four more qualifiers in the 2026 cycle, including clashes with Armenia, Hungary again, and a double-header against the Republic of Ireland.

What makes Ronaldo’s feat even more remarkable is his longevity. Hungary captain Dominik Szoboszlai was just a child mascot the last time Ronaldo faced his country in World Cup qualifying, while three of Tuesday’s starters weren’t even born when he made his international debut 22 years ago.

Ronaldo’s transformation from flair winger to prolific striker is evident in his scoring record. Before turning 30, he averaged a goal every 2.3 games for Portugal. In his 30s, that ratio improved to one every 1.2 matches. Now, at 40, he has started his fourth decade in international football with six goals in as many appearances.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Record for Portugal Through the Ages

Incredibly, Ronaldo has scored more goals for Portugal after turning 30 (89) than any player in history has scored for England, Brazil, France, Spain, or Italy—regardless of age.

The day may come when Ronaldo finally slows down, but judging by his current form, that moment is still some way off.