Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice to become the all-time top scorer in World Cup qualifiers, but Portugal could not hold on as they drew 2-2 with Hungary.

Marco Rossi's Hungary team manufactured a dream start, and were ahead after eight minutes when Szoboszlai’s pinpoint corner was nodded in at the back post by Attila Szalai. 

However, Ronaldo dragged Portugal level just 14 minutes later when he pounced onto Nelson Semedo's pass to equalise from close range.

The 40-year-old's insatiable appetite for goals continued as he volleyed in from Nuno Mendes' cross on the stroke of half-time.

Portugal threatened to extend their advantage and struck the woodwork in quick succession through long-range efforts from Ruben Dias and Bruno Fernandes. 

However, Szalai nearly netted again when he connected with Milos Kerkez’s teasing delivery, but the centre-back’s header clipped the crossbar. 

Nevertheless, Portugal were pegged back when Szoboszlai tapped in a last-gasp leveller in the 91st minute.

This draw ended the 2025 Nations League winners' run of six successive victories, but Portugal still sit top of Group F, even if their qualification has been put on ice for now.

𝗗𝗘 𝗢𝗨𝗧𝗥𝗔 𝗚𝗔𝗟𝗔́𝗫𝗜𝗔  Cristiano Ronaldo tornou-se o melhor marcador de sempre em qualificações para o Mundial  #FazHistória | #WCQ pic.twitter.com/Ivmv94ULX2 — Portugal (@selecaoportugal) October 14, 2025

Data Debrief: The irrepressible Ronaldo cannot stop scoring

Ronaldo now has 41 World Cup qualifying goals, taking him two clear in the all-time rankings, ahead of Carlos Ruiz (Guatemala).

The veteran forward’s two clinical finishes mean he has now netted five goals in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, leading the way for Portugal.

Over the course of his 78 minutes on the pitch, Ronaldo recorded seven shots, more than any other player, though he could only watch on as Szoboszlai salvaged a point, meaning Portugal will have to wait until next month to secure their place at next year's tournament.