Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates scoring their first goal during the World Cup qualifier match against Ireland, Almancil, Portugal, Sept. 1, 2021. (Reuters Photo)
Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal thrashed Liechtenstein in their opening Euro 2024 qualifying match to mark his record-breaking 197th men’s international appearance.
The 38-year-old has now scored 120 goals internationally, a men’s record.
In Qatar last year, he became the first man to score in five World Cups after making his debut on the international stage in 2003.
Ronaldo increased his total of goals by scoring a penalty in the second half and then putting a free kick into the top corner.
The attacker, who is now representing Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, struggled to find the back of the net in the opening period. He missed a clear-cut opportunity, and the hosts’ sole goal came from a deflected Joao Cancelo shot.
But, just after the half, Bernardo Silva increased their lead with a low shot into the bottom corner. Ronaldo then took center stage as he accomplished yet another milestone while also becoming the first player to score 100 goals in competitive international matches.
Although Ronaldo had surpassed Kuwait forward Bader Al-Mutawa in terms of total World Cup appearances, his future as a member of the national team was in doubt following Portugal’s quarterfinal exit to Morocco.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was benched for Portugal during the tournament but showed why he was chosen as captain in his first match in charge under new boss Roberto Martinez.