Cristiano Ronaldo podría romper este récord histórico en la Copa Mundial 2026.

At 40 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to write unprecedented chapters in football history, and the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico could become the perfect stage to further expand his legacy. 

Should the Portuguese star reach the next World Cup, he would not only join the select group of players to have competed in six tournaments, but he would also have the opportunity to surpass Eusébio as Portugal’s all-time top scorer in the competition. 

With seven goals in 22 World Cup appearances, he is just two strikes away from equaling the legendary “Lisbon Eagle,” a feat that would cement his status as a national icon and eternal reference point for Portuguese football.

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal

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Cristiano Ronaldo on the verge of becoming Portugal’s top World Cup scorer

Competing in five World Cups is an honor only a handful of players can claim. 

To date, the list includes names such as Lothar Matthäus, Antonio Carbajal, Andrés Guardado, and since 2022, Cristiano Ronaldo himself. 

If he once again dons his country’s shirt in 2026, he will join an almost mythical elite in the history of the sport.

Taking the field at 41 in one of the most demanding competitions in world football would be an unprecedented testament to his longevity, discipline, and passion for the game. 

It is not simply about showing up, but about continuing to leave a lasting mark.

Although his contributions at every World Cup have been vital for Portugal, Ronaldo still has one milestone to chase: surpassing Eusébio’s nine World Cup goals. 

The Al Nassr forward, with seven goals scored across the 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022 editions, has proven that his finishing instinct knows no expiration date.

Every World Cup appearance has been a mixture of excitement, leadership, and opportunity. 

And in 2026, with the world’s largest stage as a backdrop, he could equal or even break the mark of Portugal’s most iconic forward. It would serve as a fitting tribute to a career defined by immense challenges and even greater answers.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup goals

Here is the detailed record of Cristiano Ronaldo’s goals in World Cup play:

2006 World Cup (Germany)

• 1 goal: vs. England (Round of 16) – penalty

2010 World Cup (South Africa)

• 1 goal: vs. North Korea (group stage)

2014 World Cup (Brazil)

• 1 goal: vs. Ghana (group stage)

2018 World Cup (Russia)

• vs. Spain (group stage) – hat-trick (3 goals)
• vs. Morocco (group stage) – 1 goal

2022 World Cup (Qatar)

• 0 goals

Total: 7 goals in 5 World Cups