Ronaldo’s Opportunity for a New Record Slips Away as He Misses Penalty Against Ireland

Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty during the 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Ireland.

In the 75th minute, the 40-year-old captain kicked the penalty down the middle, but Irish goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher made a great save.

On September 9, Ronaldo successfully scored a penalty in a 3-2 victory over Hungary, tying with Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz for the most goals in World Cup qualifiers, each with 39 goals.

The match concluded with a win for Portugal, featuring a stoppage-time goal from Rúben Neves in the 90+1st minute. Cristiano will have another chance to break the record on October 14, when Portugal plays against Hungary.