Cristiano Ronaldo targets historic World Cup records in final tournament
Cristiano Ronaldo will begin his sixth and final World Cup campaign when Portugal face DR Congo on Wednesday, as the legendary forward chases an elusive global trophy and several historic records.
The 41-year-old enters the global showpiece knowing this tournament represents a final opportunity to secure international football’s greatest prize.
Despite boasting five Champions League titles and five Ballon d’Or awards, the famous gold trophy remains absent from his extensive collection.
Chasing legendary milestones
The former Real Madrid superstar will join long-time rival Lionel Messi as the only players to feature at six World Cups.
Should the veteran forward find the net in North America, he will become the first male player to score in six different editions of the competition.
He currently sits on 22 tournament appearances, trailing the Argentine playmaker’s record tally of 26.
The Seleção captain could surpass that appearance record if his nation reaches the latter stages and he features in every fixture.
Age-defying records in sight
The prolific goalscorer is also pursuing milestones related to his remarkable longevity in the professional game.
The Al-Nassr striker could become the oldest player to feature in a World Cup final, potentially shattering Dino Zoff’s benchmark of 40 years and 133 days.
He also has the opportunity to eclipse Nils Liedholm as the oldest goalscorer in a final, an accolade that has stood since 1958.
Away from tournament-specific achievements, the legendary attacker remains firmly focused on reaching a staggering 1,000 career goals.
He requires just 27 more strikes to achieve that landmark, meaning retirement from club football may not immediately follow his international swansong.
