Cristiano Ronaldo last night hunted down a century of international goals in Portugal's UEFA Nations League match against Sweden.
Typically, he not only reached that milestone, but passed it.
Ronaldo's brilliant brace established him as just the second male player to break through the 100-goal mark as he continues to close in on the record held in men's football by Iran legend Ali Daei (109).
FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated the Portuguese via SMS after the game, and the great Pele passed on his congratulations via Twitter.
They were joined by numerous FIFA legends, including beloved former team-mates such as Marcelo and Rio Ferdinand, who sent video messages to laud this modern-day phenomenon.
The FIFA President's SMS
Congratulations, Cristiano! More than 100 goals with your national team!! A fantastic record from a living legend of world football such as you are. Hope to congratulate in person soon. All the best. Gianni
I thought we were going to celebrate 100 goals today. But it was actually 101! Congratulations @Cristiano, as you reach new heights in your journey.
(@Pele)
“It's a fantastic feat, something normal for you. For me, it gives me enormous pride to be part of your story. The story of the greatest of all time.”
@luisnani
“My brother that football gave me, I'm so happy to be able to be here, congratulating you on 100 goals for the national team. I know what you've done for your national team and what you keep doing.”
@MarceloM12
“I want to send you a big hug, and give my congratulations, on reaching 100 goals on national team duty. It was a pleasure to have been your team-mate, and you're the pride of all Portuguese.”
@21nunogomes
“100 goals, it's the landmark of only a dazzling phenomenon, a record-breaker like you. It's the milestone of a monster.”
@Deco20oficial
“100 goals, man! It's more than deserved. Wonderful career, great professional, great person. Congratulations and enjoy this moment. Keep on giving us all happiness.”
@Oficial_RC3
Congratulations to @Cristiano on scoring 100 goals for Portugal. A truly staggering achievement by an extraordinary footballer. Well played.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker)
SEE ALSO | AFCON All Time Top Scorers: All Records And Stats Included
This article was most recently revised and updated 4 years ago
