Cristiano Ronaldo’s international goal-scoring record stands as one of the greatest achievements in football history. With 137 international goals for Portugal, Ronaldo is the all-time leading scorer in men’s international football. His ability to find the net against a variety of opponents, across continents and competitions, showcases his dominance on the world stage.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s international goals have come over a span of more than 20 years, demonstrating consistency, fitness, and hunger for greatness. From his debut goal in 2004 to his latest strike in 2025, every goal has added to his legendary legacy.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s 137th International Goal: A Historic Strike vs Germany
Cristiano Ronaldo’s international goals reached new heights as he scored his 137th for Portugal in a dramatic 2-1 victory over Germany during the 2025 UEFA Nations League semifinal. Playing in his record 220th appearance, the 40-year-old captain finally broke his scoring drought against Germany, netting the winner in Munich and becoming the oldest player ever to score against them. His goal capped off a stunning comeback and underlined his ability to rise to the occasion, even two decades into his international career.
This strike was more than just another statistic—it was Portugal’s first win on German soil since 1985, just six months after Ronaldo was born. The moment carried deep symbolism as Ronaldo ended a personal curse and propelled his country into the final. Ronaldo’s international goals have often defined Portugal’s biggest matches, and this one further solidified his legendary status on the world stage.
Cristiano Ronaldo international goals: Complete breakdown
Cristiano Ronaldo’s international goals are spread across different types of competitions, from friendlies to FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro matches. The table below gives a detailed breakdown of his 137 international goals by competition:
| Competition | Goals Scored |
|---|---|
| UEFA Euro Qualifiers | 40 |
| FIFA World Cup Qualifiers | 36 |
| UEFA European Championship | 14 |
| FIFA World Cup Finals | 9 |
| UEFA Nations League | 7 |
| International Friendlies | 31 |
| Confederations Cup | 0 |
| Total | 137 |
This distribution of Cristiano Ronaldo’s international goals highlights his impact in crucial qualifying campaigns and major international tournaments. He has consistently delivered for Portugal across both competitive and non-competitive fixtures.
Cristiano Ronaldo in major tournaments
In the UEFA European Championship, Cristiano Ronaldo holds the record for the most goals in tournament history. His 14 goals across five editions of the Euros underline his ability to shine on the biggest European stage. He was a crucial part of Portugal’s historic Euro 2016 win.
In the FIFA World Cup, Ronaldo has scored 9 goals, becoming the first male player to score in five different World Cup editions. His goals in the 2018 group stage against Spain, including a dramatic hat-trick, remain among the most iconic moments of his international career.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s leadership and legacy for Portugal
Beyond just numbers, Cristiano Ronaldo’s international goals have inspired Portugal to new heights. His leadership has transformed the national team into a consistent contender. Under his captaincy, Portugal won Euro 2016 and the inaugural UEFA Nations League in 2019.Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal-scoring has not only brought glory to Portugal but also inspired a generation of young footballers. His passion, professionalism, and pursuit of perfection are reflected in every international match he plays.
One of the key reasons behind Cristiano Ronaldo’s 137 international goals is his dedication to physical fitness and adapting his playing style. In the early part of his career, he played as a winger, creating and scoring. In the latter part, he evolved into a pure goal scorer, focusing on positioning, finishing, and intelligent movement.
Even at the age of 40, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to find the net for Portugal, showing that his hunger for goals and international success remains intact.
Final thoughts on Cristiano Ronaldo international goals
Cristiano Ronaldo’s international goals have redefined greatness in world football. Scoring 137 goals for your country is a record that may stand for decades. From teenage sensation to global icon, Ronaldo’s journey with the Portugal national team is nothing short of legendary.
As the UEFA Euro 2025 and potential World Cup 2026 approach, the world watches to see if Cristiano Ronaldo will continue adding to his international goals tally. Whether he scores again or not, his record already stands among the greatest feats in football history.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s international goals are not just statistics; they are chapters in a story of persistence, passion, and football immortality.
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