PORTUGAL: Cristiano Ronaldo has became the first men’s football player in history to score 900 goals in official matches, reaching his latest milestone in Portugal’s UEFA Nations League match against Croatia in Lisbon on Thursday.
Ronaldo secured the historic goal with a volley from 6 yards off a cross from Nuno Mendes to put Portugal 2-0 up in the 34th minute. Portugal went on to win 2-1.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is 58 goals ahead of his nearest challenger, Lionel Messi, who is on 842. Brazilian legend Pelé is third on the list with 765.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s remarkable achievement of scoring 900 career goals is a testament to his extraordinary skill, perseverance, and dedication to football. This milestone, reached in September 2024, solidifies Ronaldo’s place as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
Ronaldo’s journey to 900 goals is a story of relentless drive and unparalleled talent. Born in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, Ronaldo began his professional career with Sporting CP, but it was his move to Manchester United in 2003 that marked the beginning of his ascent to footballing greatness.
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Under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson, Ronaldo evolved from a talented winger into one of the most prolific forwards in the world. His blend of speed, technique, and powerful shooting made him a constant threat to defenders and a regular fixture on the scoresheet.
His time at Manchester United was marked by significant success, including three Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy. Ronaldo’s knack for scoring crucial goals in key moments showcased his ability to perform under pressure. His 118 goals during his stint with the Red Devils laid a solid foundation for his future achievements.
Ronaldo’s transfer to Real Madrid in 2009 was another pivotal moment in his career. At Madrid, he became a goal-scoring machine, breaking records and setting new benchmarks. His incredible tally of 450 goals in 438 appearances for the club is a record that stands as a testament to his consistency and excellence.
Ronaldo’s time at Real Madrid saw him win four Champions League titles and become the club’s all-time leading scorer. His ability to score in a variety of ways—whether through powerful long-range shots, precise headers, or deft finishes—made him a complete striker.
After a successful spell in Spain, Ronaldo’s move to Juventus in 2018 was another chapter in his storied career. Despite being in a different league and facing new challenges, he continued to demonstrate his remarkable goal-scoring prowess. His 101 goals for Juventus showed that his abilities were undiminished by age or the change in environment. His impact in Serie A was profound, helping Juventus maintain their dominance in Italian football.
Returning to Manchester United in 2021 and later moving to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia did not slow down Ronaldo’s goal-scoring instinct. Even in the latter stages of his career, he remained a formidable force, proving that his hunger for goals and his commitment to the game were as strong as ever.
His ability to adapt to different styles of play and maintain his fitness levels at an advanced age is a testament to his professionalism and work ethic.
Ronaldo’s achievement of 900 career goals is not just a number; it is a reflection of a lifetime of dedication to football. It represents countless hours of training, unwavering focus, and a never-ending quest for excellence. His journey through various leagues and teams, consistently being among the top scorers, underscores his exceptional ability and resilience.
As Ronaldo continues to play, his legacy grows ever richer. The 900-goal milestone is a significant marker in a career filled with triumphs and records. Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence on the game extends beyond his incredible statistics.
He has inspired countless young players around the world and elevated the sport with his extraordinary performances. His goal-scoring record will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest achievements in football history
“I want to reach 1,000 goals,” he told his former Man Unit
The Portugal captain’s 131 international goals in 209 appearances is also the most all-time. Messi is again second behind Ronaldo on that list; he and former Iran forward Ali Daei both have 109 goals.
As well as Al Nassr and Man United, Ronaldo also has divided his 769 club goals among Sporting CP, Real Madrid and Juventus.
The 39-year-old has made clear that he has no intention of slowing down any time soon and recently said he is already targeting his next goal milestone.
“I want to reach 1,000 goals,” he told his former Man United teammate Rio Ferdinand on his YouTube channel, estimating that the historic mark could come around the age of 41.
“If I don’t have any injuries, this is the most important [thing] for me, and I want that. For me, the best mark that I can have in football is to reach 900 goals first. After, my challenge is to be at 1,000 goals.”
Ever competitive, Ronaldo was quick to point out what would set his goals apart from those of other all-time scorers, including legends such as Pele and Alfredo Di Stefano, who played in eras when cameras weren’t as prevalent..
“They all have video. Listen, I respect all of them [Pele and Di Stefano]. And if you want more goals, I can bring them from training, too. And I will prove to the people after. They prefer this player, or this is the best one. I don’t care about that.”
