Portugal’s captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, has become the greatest goalscorer in men’s international football history.
He broke the world record for goals scored in men’s international football this evening as he scored his 110th and 111th goals for Portugal in their 2-1 World Cup qualifying win over the Republic of Ireland.
Ronaldo, aged 36-year-old scored two late headers – to break and extend the record. He had earlier had his penalty saved by Gavin Bazunu.
The previous record holder was Ali Daei, who scored 109 goals for Iran between 1993 and 2006. Ronaldo equalled Ali’s record with a double against France at Euro 2020.
“I can’t even start to express myself in words! I’m thrilled with an overwhelming sensation! Let’s go, Portugal! Let’s go!,” Ronaldo wrote on Facebook.
He added in his post after the game: “From all the records that I have broken during my career – and fortunately there have been a few – this one is very special for me and it’s certainly on the shelf of the achievements that make me truly proud.”
“First of all, because every time I represent my country is a special moment, for knowing that I’m defending Portugal and showing to the world what Portuguese people are made of. Secondly, because National Teams competitions have always had a very strong impact in me as I was growing up, watching my idols playing for their flags every other Summer in Euros and in World Cups. But finally and above all, because scoring 111 goals for Portugal means 111 moments like the ones we experienced today in Algarve, moments of worldwide union and happiness for millions and millions of Portuguese citizens all around the Globe. For them, every sacrifice is worth it.”
“Another reason for me to appreciate this achievement as much as I do right now, is because Ali Daei has set the standards in such a high level, that at some point even I started thinking that I might never catch him. Congratulations to the “Shariar” for holding the record for so long and thanks for always showing so much respect for me every time I scored and as I became closer and closer to his outstanding number.”
“Thank you Portugal. Thanks to all my teammates and opponents for making this journey so unforgettable. Let’s keep meeting inside the pitch in the years to come! I’m not closing the count just yet…”
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