World Cup qualifying for FIFA 26 is already delivering unforgettable nights of football, and this week’s matches reminded fans just how thrilling the road to the tournament can be. Cristiano Ronaldo matched a historic scoring record, Erling Haaland stunned with a five-goal performance, and Kylian Mbappe once again etched his name into the French history books. Across Europe, the stories were filled with drama, passion, and the kind of magic that makes soccer the world’s game.
Portugal’s Ronaldo Reaches Another Milestone
In Budapest, Cristiano Ronaldo added yet another legendary chapter to his career. The Portuguese captain scored in a dramatic 3-2 win over Hungary, tying Carlos Ruiz’s all-time record for most goals in World Cup qualifying history with 39.
The game itself was a rollercoaster. Hungary struck first through Barnabas Varga’s header, igniting the home crowd. Bernardo Silva equalized with a clever finish, before Ronaldo coolly slotted home a penalty to put Portugal in front. Hungary refused to back down, as Varga scored again late in the match, but Joao Cancelo sealed the win with a stunning goal just minutes from full time.
Ronaldo’s composure from the spot not only secured a vital victory for Portugal but also reinforced his status as one of the most reliable scorers in football history.
Haaland Dominates in Norway’s Big Win
If Ronaldo’s achievement was about legacy, Erling Haaland’s night was about pure power and promise. The Norwegian striker scored five goals in one game as his national team delivered a crushing performance that will be remembered for years.
At only 25, Haaland continues to redefine what it means to be a center-forward. His speed, strength, and finishing ability were on full display as Norway overwhelmed their opponent. For fans, it was another reminder that Haaland is not just a star of today but one of the most unstoppable forces shaping the future of soccer.
Mbappe Sparks France to a Comeback
Meanwhile, in Paris, Kylian Mbappe added another milestone to his extraordinary career. Facing a determined Iceland side, France found themselves trailing after a defensive error led to a goal from Andri Gudjohnsen.
Just before halftime, Mbappe converted a penalty after VAR confirmed a foul on Marcus Thuram. That goal brought his tally to 52 for France, surpassing Thierry Henry on the nation’s all-time scoring list. Only Olivier Giroud has more, with 57.
In the second half, Mbappe’s creativity shone again as he set up Bradley Barcola for the match-winning strike. France held on despite going down to ten men, securing their second win in as many games.
Armenia Bounces Back Against Ireland
Elsewhere, Armenia earned an important 2-1 victory over the Republic of Ireland. Eduard Spertsyan’s penalty and Grant-Leon Ranos’ goal gave the hosts a two-goal cushion before Evan Ferguson pulled one back for the visitors. After suffering a heavy defeat to Portugal, Armenia’s response showed resilience and determination.
A Night to Remember for Fans Everywhere
From Ronaldo’s record-tying moment to Haaland’s extraordinary five-goal showcase, this round of qualifiers had everything fans dream of: history in the making, new stars rising, and the emotional highs and lows of international football.
For U.S. fans, it’s a reminder of why World Cup qualifying always captures global attention. Each match carries weight not just for the teams involved but for the legacies of the game’s biggest players. Whether it’s Ronaldo chasing yet another record, Mbappe stepping closer to becoming France’s all-time scorer, or Haaland rewriting what’s possible for a striker, these games create lasting memories.
If you’re feeling inspired to support your favorite team during qualifying, you can find a wide selection of jerseys at topsoccerjerseys.com. Wearing your team’s colors is one of the best ways to feel connected to the action, whether you’re watching from the stadium or cheering at home with friends.
Soccer brings fans together across borders, and moments like these are why we fall in love with the game. With FIFA 26 getting closer, every qualifier matters, every goal adds to the story, and every fan has a role to play in celebrating the beautiful game.
