Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) - Sports Service: Portugal managed to win 3-2 against Hungary in one of the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers at the Puskas Arena; an eventful night that began with an early goal by the opponent but ended with a powerful performance by Portugal's stars.

 

Ronaldo scored from the penalty spot in this match to bring his number of goals to 944 and reduce his distance from the dream record of 1,000 goals by one.

 

First half; Hungary's early shock and Silva's response

Only 20 minutes into the game, Hungary's players scored on a quick counterattack and a beautiful cross from Nagy with a header from Barnabas Varga. Portugal's goal collapsed soon after and the hosts continued in high spirits.

 

But Portugal gradually took control of the game. Possession and pressure on the Hungarian goal finally paid off in the 35th minute. João Cancelo's excellent move and his precise pass paved the way for Bernardo Silva to equalize. The creative Manchester City midfielder put the ball into the net with a confident shot to end the first half with a 1-1 draw.

 

Ronaldo's penalty and goal number 141

From the start of the second half, Portugal appeared more attacking and created several chances. The turning point of the match came in the 55th minute; the ball hit Luik Ngo in the area and the referee immediately pointed to the penalty spot. Varga's protest only earned him a yellow card.

 

Cristiano Ronaldo stood behind the ball. Portugal's eternal No. 7, with a long pause but a precise and confident shot, sent the ball into the corner of the goal and scored Portugal's second goal. It was his 141st international goal; a legendary record that is becoming more and more elusive by the day.

 

Hungary's comeback and Cancelo's final shot

Hungary, however, did not give up. In the 83rd minute, it was Varga again who tied the score at 2-2 with a spectacular header, delighting the home fans.

 

Just two minutes later, it was João Cancelo's turn to prove himself a hero of the final moments. He curled a powerful shot from behind the area into the corner of the goal from Bernardo Silva to score Portugal's third goal. The goal that changed the fate of the game and brought a sweet victory to Roberto Martinez's team.

 

Portugal on the road to the World Cup

A 3-2 victory in Budapest, a few days after a brilliant 5-0 victory over Armenia, showed that Portugal is on the road to direct qualification for the World Cup. Ronaldo scored again, closing the gap on his dream record of 1,000 goals.

 

With this victory, the Portuguese proved that they are not only a contender for qualification, but also one of the main powers in Europe on the eve of the 2026 World Cup and can be considered one of the main contenders for the World Cup.