Cristiano Ronaldo's historic performance in Portugal's draw with Hungary

Match Summary

Portugal failed to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup after conceding a late goal to Hungary that resulted in a 2-2 draw in Lisbon. Roberto Martinez's side, needing a win to qualify, were forced to come from behind after conceding an early goal. The comeback was spearheaded by two goals from Cristiano Ronaldo , who also set a new all-time record in World Cup qualifying.

Despite Armenia's defeat to Ireland giving them the boost they needed, Portugal's joy was cut short at the last minute. Liverpool's Dominik Szoboszlai appeared to score the equalizer, meaning Cristiano Ronaldo and company will have to wait until the November window to secure their ticket to North America.

The match started in the worst possible way for the home side when Attila Szalai put Hungary ahead after a mistake by goalkeeper Diogo Costa on a corner. However, Cristiano Ronaldo equalized midway through the first half, scoring his 40th World Cup qualifying goal and surpassing Guatemalan Carlos Ruiz's record of 39. Before the break, Ronaldo put Portugal back in front with another close-range finish after a cross from Nuno Mendes.

In the second half, Portugal looked to put the game to bed, hitting the post twice through Ruben Dias and Bruno Fernandes. But Hungary refused to give up, and after a chance from Szalai also hit the crossbar, they were rewarded with a goal from Szoboszlai that silenced the Estádio José Alvalade.

Portugal Player Ratings

Goalkeeper and Defense

• Diogo Costa (6/10): He should have been more decisive in Hungary's opening goal. Although he later demonstrated his goalkeeping skills with some fine saves, his initial error proved costly.
• Nelson Semedo (7/10): He made an excellent play on the right that culminated in a precise assist for his captain's first goal.
• Ruben Dias (5/10): He came close to scoring a spectacular goal with a long-range shot that crashed off the post. However, he was unable to intercept the cross that led to Hungary's equalizer.
• Renato Veiga (5/10): In his first start since June, he failed to establish himself and needs to show more to consolidate his position.
• Nuno Mendes (8/10): He showed why he is considered one of the best full-backs in the world. His sumptuous first-time cross allowed Cristiano Ronaldo scored the second goal. Solid in defense.

midfielders

• Ruben Neves (7/10): He controlled the game from a deep position, allowing Portugal to take control of the match after conceding a goal.
• Vitinha (7/10): Key with the “pre-assist” in the first goal, breaking the Hungarian defense with a pass to Semedo.
• Bruno Fernandes (6/10): He created several chances that weren't converted. He was substituted just after the hour mark.

Attack

• Bernardo Silva (7/10): He had a lot of possession and used it well to create opportunities that his teammates did not take advantage of.
• Cristiano Ronaldo (9/10): Simply unstoppable, even at nearly 41 years old. In the first half, all three of Portugal's shots on goal were his, and two ended in goals. The fact that they were "easy" shots is irrelevant compared to his effectiveness.
• Pedro Neto (7/10): He was a constant threat with his speed and was involved in the second goal before being substituted.

Substitutes and Coach

• Joao Felix (6/10): He almost had an immediate impact, but his shot was stopped by a great save.
• Joao Palhinha (6/10): He came in for Neves and fulfilled his role with ease.
• Nuno Tavares (4/10): His introduction for Mendes was a clear drop in form. He too easily allowed the cross that led to the equalizer.
• Roberto Martinez (5/10): Although his commitment to attacking full-backs paid off in attack, his changes in the second half could be questioned, especially given the final result.
• Afun