Cristiano Ronaldo has etched his name deeper into football history by becoming the first player to score 900 career goals. The milestone came during Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Croatia in the UEFA Nations League opener on September 5, 2024. The 39-year-old superstar reached this unprecedented achievement in the 34th minute of the match at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon, connecting with a precise cross from Nuno Mendes.Ronaldo’s emotional celebration, covering his face and kneeling on the ground, underscored the magnitude of the achievement. ‘It was emotional because it’s a milestone. It seems like any other milestone, but only I and the people around me know how hard it is to work every day, to be physically and psychologically fit, to score 900 goals. It’s a unique milestone in my career,’ Ronaldo admitted after the match.The breakdown of Ronaldo’s 900 goals spans his illustrious career across various clubs and the national team: 450 for Real Madrid, 145 for Manchester United, 131 for Portugal (extending his record for international goals), 101 for Juventus, 68 for Al-Nassr, and 5 for Sporting Lisbon. This tally gives him an impressive average of 0.73 goals per game over 1238 official matches.As Ronaldo continues to defy age and expectations, his sights are set on an even loftier goal. ‘I want to reach 1,000 goals. If I don’t have any injuries, this for me is the most important (thing), I want that,’ Ronaldo stated. With this latest achievement, Ronaldo further cements his status as one of the greatest footballers in history, inspiring fans and fellow players alike with his enduring talent and dedication to the sport.
Key points
- Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score 900 career goals in official matches.
- Ronaldo achieved this milestone during Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Croatia in the UEFA Nations League.
- The Portuguese star has expressed his desire to reach 1000 career goals.
