By Michelle Ndaga
Cristiano Ronaldo scored a record-equalling goal as Portugal edged Hungary 3–2 in a tense UEFA World Cup qualifying clash at the Puskás Aréna on Tuesday night.
Hungary struck first through Barnabás Varga in the 21st minute, but Portugal hit back when Bernardo Silva rifled home a superb equaliser before halftime. Ronaldo then put the visitors ahead early in the second half, converting a penalty to match the all-time record of 39 World Cup qualifying goals.
The hosts refused to back down, with Varga scoring his second of the night in the 84th minute to restore parity. Just as the game seemed destined for a draw, João Cancelo produced a stunning long-range strike two minutes later to seal victory for Portugal.
The win lifted Roberto Martínez’s side to the top of Group F with six points from two matches, keeping them on course for qualification to the 2026 World Cup. Hungary, meanwhile, will rue missed chances and remain under pressure in a competitive group.
The result not only reaffirmed Ronaldo’s enduring influence at 40 but also highlighted Portugal’s resilience in a high-stakes away fixture.
Sources: Reuters, The Guardian
