When Cristiano Ronaldo surpassed Ali Daei’s record of 109 international goals in 2021, he didn’t just break a record—he shattered it. With 135+ goals for Portugal, Ronaldo has created a gap that may never be closed.
The Record-Breaking Journey
Breaking Ali Daei’s Record
For years, Ali Daei’s 109 international goals seemed untouchable. The Iranian legend had set the mark over a 17-year international career, and many thought it would stand forever.
Then came Ronaldo. Goal by goal, tournament by tournament, he chipped away at the record. On September 1, 2021, against Ireland, Ronaldo scored twice to reach 111 goals, officially becoming the highest-scoring player in international football history.
The Goals Keep Coming
What makes Ronaldo’s record truly remarkable is that he didn’t stop. Since breaking the record, he’s added 25+ more goals. At 135+, he’s created a buffer that seems insurmountable.
Goals by Competition
- European Championship Qualifiers: 45+ goals
- World Cup Qualifiers: 35+ goals
- UEFA Nations League: 15+ goals
- Euro Finals: 14 goals (all-time tournament record)
- World Cup Finals: 8 goals
- Friendlies: 20+ goals
Memorable International Goals
Euro 2004 Opening Goal
A 19-year-old Ronaldo announced himself on the international stage with a powerful header against Greece in the Euro 2004 opener.
Euro 2016 Semi-Final vs Wales
Two goals sent Portugal to the final. Ronaldo was at his imperious best, dominating an experienced Welsh defense.
100th International Goal
The milestone came against Sweden in the Nations League—a free-kick that bent around the wall and into the corner. Pure Ronaldo.
900th Career Goal (International)
His 900th career goal came for Portugal against Croatia, a moment that combined international glory with personal milestone.
The Portugal Legacy
Ronaldo is more than just Portugal’s all-time leading scorer. He’s the symbol of a footballing nation that had long underachieved on the international stage.
- Euro 2016: Led Portugal to their first major trophy
- Nations League 2019: Added a second international title
- Captain: Has worn the armband for nearly 20 years
Can Anyone Catch Him?
The short answer: probably not.
Consider what it would take. A player would need to:
- Begin their international career at 18
- Play until 40+
- Average 7+ goals per year for 20 years
- Stay injury-free and consistently selected
Currently, no active player is on pace to challenge Ronaldo’s record. By the time he retires, he could have 150+ international goals—a mark that would stand for generations.
135+ international goals. It’s a number that represents 20+ years of excellence for Portugal, countless decisive moments, and a legacy that transcends club football.