Cristiano Ronaldo, made history on Thursday night by becoming the most-capped player in men's international football. The 38-year-old forward started in Portugal's European qualifier against Liechtenstein, making his 197th appearance for his country and breaking the previous record held by Kuwait's Bader Al-Mutawa of 196 caps. Ronaldo led Portugal to a comfortable 4-0 victory against Liechtenstein, scoring two goals in the process. The first was a penalty kick, while the second was a powerful free-kick that found the back of the net.
Ronaldo had already become Europe's most-capped player in 2021 after surpassing Sergio Ramos' record of 180 appearances with Spain. With his latest appearance, he now sits atop the all-time list of most-capped players in men's international football. Following him on the list are Malaysia's Soh Chin Ann with 195 caps, Egypt's Ahmed Hassan with 184 caps, and Oman's Ahmed Mubarak with 183 caps.
Additionally, Ronaldo is now the fifth oldest player to ever represent the Portuguese national team at the age of 38. Only Pepe, Damas, Silvino, and Fonte have played for Portugal at an older age.
Ronaldo made his international debut for Portugal in 2003, and has since become one of the greatest footballers of all time. He has won numerous individual awards, including five Ballon d'Or trophies, and has led his teams to multiple domestic and international titles. Last year, he became the first man to score in five different World Cups, before Portugal were eliminated in the quarterfinals by Morocco.
