Cristiano Ronaldo became the first man to net 900 career goals during Portugal’s 2-1 win over Croatia in the Nations League on Thursday.
The 39-year-old scored a standard volley from inside the penalty box to put his side 2-0 up, latching on to a Nuno Mendes cross.
Ronaldo, who plays his football at Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia – fell to the floor during his celebration as he let the moment wash over him as several team-mates surrounded him.
The goal was also his 131st for Portugal, a record-extending amount, 20 years after his first strike on the international stage.
It had already been a bright start for Portugal, who were 1-0 up through Diogo Dalot’s strike.
The Manchester United defender did later score an own goal, but it would not matter as Ronaldo’s finish ensured three points in the Nations League.
Speaking after the game, the football icon admitted he is no longer motivated by trophies and he is enjoying the records as they come.
Cristiano Ronaldo.
900 career goals 🤯#NationsLeague pic.twitter.com/5WFKOfvXkC
— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) September 5, 2024
He said: “900 goals seems like any other milestone, but only I know how hard it is to work every day to score your 900th goal.
“It’s a unique milestone in my career”. I don’t break records… they haunt me!
“Portugal winning Euros is equivalent to winning a World Cup.
“I’ve already won two trophies for Portugal that I really wanted. I’m not motivated by that.
“I’m motivated by enjoying football and the records come naturally.”
Ronaldo’s goal ensured Portugal sit joint-top of League A Group 1 after Poland beat Scotland on the same night.
He will be looking to grab his 901st goal when they face the Tartan Army at home on Sunday.
