Ronaldo outshines Messi, surpasses friend, but isn't the oldest World Cup scorer (photos)

Cristiano Ronaldo made his mark at the 2026 World Cup, scoring a brace in the second match against Uzbekistan, thereby etching his name into the history books.

The Portugal captain not only became the first player to score in six World Cup finals – surpassing Messi, who failed to score in 2010 – but he also achieved more. He is now the second-oldest player ever to score in the tournament, overtaking his Argentine rival (who had already passed him in this finals) and a close friend. However, to reach the very top, he will need to play, and score, in the 2030 World Cup.

CR7 also reached ten goals in World Cup finals, placing him among the all-time top scorers. However, in this particular ranking, he remains well behind Messi.

With his brace, Ronaldo also surpassed Eusébio as Portugal's all-time leading scorer in World Cup finals. This list notably excludes Figo (who went scoreless in two World Cup appearances) and highlights Rafael Leão, who sealed the rout against Uzbekistan yesterday.

By facing Uzbekistan, Cristiano Ronaldo also climbed into the top three for most appearances in World Cup finals. The usual suspect leads the pack, but if the Portuguese star plays against Colombia, he will secure second place.

Finally, the Portuguese continues to climb the ranking of oldest players, but even there, he will need to play in 2030 to move further up the list.