Cristiano Ronaldo is now the all-time highest goalscorer in international football after he helped Portugal defeat the Republic of Ireland 2-1 in a World Cup qualifier on Wednesday.
The Manchester United forward has now 111 international goals, breaking a record of 109 goals previously held by Iran’s Ali Daei.
The 36-year-old expressed his excitement at the new achievement:
“From all the records that I have broken during my career – and fortunately there have been a few – this one is very special for me and it’s certainly on the shelf of the achievements that make me truly proud,” Ronaldo said in a post on Instagram.
“Scoring 111 goals for Portugal means 111 moments like the ones we experienced today in Algarve, moments of worldwide union and happiness for millions and millions of Portuguese citizens all around the globe. For them, every sacrifice is worth it.”
Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to feature in five European Championships at this year’s Euro 2020, where he won the Golden Boot.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who secured his surprise move to Manchester United from Juventus this week, hinted he has no intention of retiring from international football in the near future.
“Thank you, Portugal. Thanks to all my teammates and opponents for making this journey so unforgettable,” he added. “Let’s keep meeting inside the pitch in the years to come! I’m not closing the count just yet.”
Portugal will face Qatar in a friendly on Saturday before travelling to Azerbaijan on September 7.