The race to the FIFA World Cup has always produced standout performers whose goals have defined their nations’ qualification campaigns.
With his brace against Hungary, Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo extended his record as the highest scorer in World Cup qualifying history. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has now found the back of the net 41 times in World Cup qualifying matches, more than any other player.
Since making his debut in the 2006 campaign, the 40-year-old has scored in all but one qualifying campaign, further solidifying his place among football’s greatest.
As the world counts down to the 2026 edition, here’s a look at the players who have scored the most goals in World Cup qualifying history.
1st) Cristiano Ronaldo – 41 in 51 appearances
2nd) Carlos Ruiz – 39 goals in 47 appearances
3rd) Lionel Messi – 36 in 72 appearances
4th) Ali Daei – 35 in 51 appearances
5th) Robert Lewandowski – 33 in 42 appearances
6th) Chris Wood – 29 in 31 appearances
6th) Sardar Azmoun – 29 in 41 appearances
6th) Edin Dzeko – 29 in 42 appearances
6th) Luis Suarez – 29 in 64 appearances
10th) Karim Bagheri – 28 in 29 appearances
Vanguard News
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