Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025: Magic Ronaldo is back

The Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025 narrative ignited global excitement as Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal’s talismanic captain, surpassed Lionel Messi’s all-time FIFA World Cup qualifier goal-scoring record with a brace in a 5-0 thrashing of Armenia on September 6, 2025, at Yerevan’s Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium. Ronaldo’s 139th and 140th international goals took his World Cup qualifier tally to 38 in 48 appearances, edging past Messi’s 36 in 72 matches. The Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025 milestone, coupled with an emotional tribute to the late Diogo Jota, marked a powerful start to Portugal’s 2026 World Cup campaign.

Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup Qualifier Record 2025: Breaking Messi’s Mark in Portugal’s 5-0 Armenia Rout

The Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025 moment unfolded in Portugal’s Group F opener, where Roberto Martínez’s squad showcased their attacking prowess. João Félix, Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr teammate, set the tone in the 10th minute, latching onto Pedro Neto’s pinpoint cross to fire past Armenia’s goalkeeper, Henri Avagyan. Portugal’s high press overwhelmed Armenia, who managed just 29% possession and 0.2 expected goals (xG) in the first half. Ronaldo doubled the lead in the 21st minute, expertly shrugging off defender Sergey Muradyan to connect with Nuno Mendes’ low cross, slotting home his 139th international goal. Fans erupted on social media, with one tweeting, “CR7 at 40 is still a machine!”

João Cancelo extended Portugal’s advantage in the 32nd minute, finishing a slick cut-back from Félix with a first-time shot, rated 7/10 for his all-around display. The Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025 highlight came just 61 seconds into the second half, as Ronaldo unleashed a stunning 25-yard volley after a long ball from Rúben Dias. Despite Avagyan’s faint touch, the ball rocketed into the net, marking Ronaldo’s 140th Portugal goal and his 38th in World Cup qualifiers, surpassing Messi. Félix sealed the 5-0 rout in the 78th minute, heading in Bruno Fernandes’ lofted pass, as Portugal generated 3.4 xG to Armenia’s 0.5.

Emotional Tribute to Diogo Jota

The Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025 was steeped in emotion, as Portugal played their first match since the tragic passing of star forward Diogo Jota in a car crash in July 2025. Jota, who wore the number 21 jersey, was honored by Ronaldo’s 21st-minute goal, a moment left-back Nuno Tavares called “special.” “We’re all very happy because it shows he’s with us,” Tavares said. “That moment, Ronaldo’s goal, was made possible.” Cancelo’s goal celebration mimicked Jota’s trademark video game gesture, drawing tears from fans, with one posting, “Jota’s spirit was on the pitch tonight.” The emotional weight amplified the Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025, blending triumph with tribute.

Ronaldo vs. Messi: The Record-Breaking Moment

The Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025 saw Ronaldo eclipse Messi’s 36 World Cup qualifier goals, a mark the Argentine reached with a brace against Venezuela on September 4, 2025. Ronaldo’s 38 goals in 48 qualifier appearances reflect a scoring rate of 0.79 goals per game, compared to Messi’s 0.50. With 942 career goals across Portugal, Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al-Nassr, Ronaldo is chasing the 1,000-goal milestone. His 2025 form—five goals in four international matches, including three in the UEFA Nations League—underscores his enduring brilliance at 40. Fans debated online, with one commenting, “Ronaldo’s hunger for records is unmatched!”

Ronaldo now trails only Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz (39 goals in 47 qualifiers) for the all-time World Cup qualifier scoring record. With Portugal facing Hungary on September 9, Ireland and Hungary in October, and Ireland and Armenia in November 2025, the Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025 could see him claim the top spot. Messi, having announced he will skip Argentina’s final qualifier against Ecuador, leaves the path clear for Ronaldo to dominate the charts.

Portugal’s 2026 World Cup Ambitions

The Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025 victory positions Portugal as Group F favorites, alongside Hungary and Ireland. Martínez’s squad, fresh off their 2025 UEFA Nations League title, blends youth and experience, with Bruno Fernandes (8/10 rating) dictating play and João Neves (7/10) anchoring midfield. Despite injuries to Rafael Leão and Diogo Dalot, Portugal’s depth—bolstered by four Paris Saint-Germain players—ensures flexibility. Their 5-0 rout, with 612 completed passes to Armenia’s 247, signals intent to avoid past playoff heartaches, having needed them in three of their last four World Cup qualifications.

Ronaldo, aiming for a record sixth World Cup appearance, remains central. His five goals in four matches against Armenia, including a 2015 hat-trick, highlight his clutch ability. The Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025 sets the stage for Portugal’s campaign, with Martínez praising, “Cristiano’s leadership and goals are our foundation.” Upcoming matches against Hungary (September 9) and Ireland (October 11) will test their momentum, but Portugal’s 2.9 shots on target per game in 2025 suggest they’re primed for success.

Ronaldo’s Global Impact

The Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025 extends beyond statistics, reinforcing his global influence. His Al-Nassr form—100 competitive goals since joining in 2022—and recent contract extension to 2027 defy age. Ronaldo’s leadership in Portugal’s 2016 UEFA Euro and two Nations League titles fuels hopes for a 2026 World Cup triumph, the one major trophy eluding him. Social media buzzed, with fans posting, “CR7 breaking Messi’s record at 40? Legend!” The Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025 also highlights his rivalry with Messi, who won the 2022 World Cup, adding stakes to Ronaldo’s quest.

Conclusion: Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Journey Begins

The Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025 marks a historic step in Portugal’s 2026 World Cup journey, as Ronaldo’s brace against Armenia surpassed Messi and honored Diogo Jota. With 38 qualifier goals and a clear path to Carlos Ruiz’s record, Ronaldo’s ambition remains undimmed. Can he lead Portugal to World Cup glory? Share your thoughts on the Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup qualifier record 2025 below!

RONALDO BROTHER YOU ARE 40 😭

pic.twitter.com/CzhnDDTcg6

— CristianoXtra (@CristianoXtra_) September 6, 2025

FAQs: Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup Qualifier Record 2025

What record did Ronaldo break against Armenia?
Ronaldo surpassed Lionel Messi’s 36 World Cup qualifier goals, reaching 38 in 48 appearances.
When was Portugal’s match against Armenia?
It was on September 6, 2025, at Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium, Yerevan.
How did Ronaldo honor Diogo Jota?
His 21st-minute goal, in Jota’s number 21 jersey minute, was a tribute, as was Cancelo’s celebration.
Who else scored for Portugal?
João Félix scored twice (10th, 78th minutes), and João Cancelo scored once (32nd minute).
What’s next for Portugal in the qualifiers?
Portugal face Hungary on September 9, 2025, followed by Ireland and Hungary in October.