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<p>Lionel Messi ranks third</p>
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<img alt="Cristiano Ronaldo breaks World Cup qualifiers record while Messi ranks third" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/wcq-spot-1760525467-180416.png" title="Cristiano Ronaldo breaks World Cup qualifiers record while Messi ranks third"></img>
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<p>Cristiano Ronaldo may be in the latter stages of his remarkable career at 40 years old, but he continues to shatter records. In a recent match, Portugal faced a frustrating 2-2 draw against Hungary in Lisbon, where Dominic Szoboszlai scored a late equalizer. However, Ronaldo was the highlight of the evening, netting two goals, marking his 143rd for the national team in his 225th appearance.</p>
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<p>With these goals, Ronaldo reached a total of 41 in World Cup qualifying matches, making him the all-time leading scorer in this category. He aims to extend his playing career for a few more years, with the ultimate dream of securing a World Cup victory next summer. Reflecting on his future, Ronaldo stated, "I want to keep playing for a few more years, not many; I have to be honest. I'm still producing good performances and contributing to my club and national team. So why not continue?" The legendary forward, who has played for Manchester United and Real Madrid, has set the record for World Cup qualifier goals. But who else makes it into the top ten list?</p>
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<h2>Record Goalscorers in World Cup Qualifying</h2>
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<p>Ronaldo's initial goal against Hungary secured his record, and he later added his 41st in his 51st World Cup qualifying match. Carlos Ruiz previously held the record, with 39 goals in 47 qualifiers for Guatemala. Lionel Messi, Ronaldo’s greatest rival in football, ranks third, having scored 36 goals in 72 World Cup qualifiers for Argentina.</p>
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<p>This graphic showcases the top ten list, featuring some notable names, including Robert Lewandowski. The 37-year-old is undoubtedly Poland’s greatest player, with 33 goals in 42 World Cup qualifiers. Remarkably, every player in the top ten list is an attacker, except for former Iran international Karim Bagheri, a defensive midfielder known for his astonishing record, scoring seven goals in a single match against the Maldives.</p>
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