A decade of matches without a goal: Ronaldo's most unusual record yet

For a player who has built a career on scoring goals, Cristiano Ronaldo is experiencing one of the longest barren runs of his international career.

Portugal's captain has now gone 10 consecutive matches without scoring in major international competitions, a surprising statistic for a footballer widely regarded as one of the greatest goalscorers in the history of the game.

The 41-year-old entered the FIFA World Cup 2026 hoping to make another statement on football's biggest stage. Instead, his opening outing against DR Congo highlighted the challenges facing the veteran forward as he searches for his first major tournament goal in nearly four years.

Historic record overshadows frustrating night

Ronaldo made headlines before kick-off after becoming the oldest outfield player ever to start a FIFA World Cup match.

However, the historic milestone was overshadowed by a frustrating evening in Portugal's 1-1 draw against DR Congo. The veteran forward struggled to impose himself on the contest, managing just 25 touches across the entire match as the Congolese defence kept him largely quiet.

Ronaldo attempted three shots but failed to register an effort on target, while Portugal found it difficult to bring their captain into dangerous areas. Despite playing the full 90 minutes, he was unable to make the decisive impact that has defined so much of his illustrious career.

The result left Portugal with work to do in Group F and extended Ronaldo's goal drought in major competitions to 10 consecutive matches.

A rare sight for football's ultimate finisher

Throughout his career, Ronaldo has made a habit of delivering in football's biggest moments. His goals have helped Portugal win major honours, including the UEFA European Championship in 2016 and multiple UEFA Nations League titles.

The current run is therefore unusual for a player who has scored more than 900 career goals and spent over two decades terrorising opposition defences.

Remarkably, Ronaldo has not scored in either a FIFA World Cup or UEFA European Championship match since converting a penalty against Ghana at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Since then, he has featured in major tournaments without adding to his tally, an unfamiliar situation for a player whose reputation was built on decisive goals.

Portugal looking beyond individual numbers

While Ronaldo's drought has become a talking point, Portugal remain focused on their broader ambitions at the tournament.

Manager Roberto Martínez has repeatedly stressed the importance of the captain's leadership and experience within a squad packed with younger attacking talent. Although goals have dried up, Ronaldo continues to occupy defenders and provide a focal point in attack.

Portugal's attacking approach has also evolved in recent years, with responsibility shared among several players rather than resting solely on the shoulders of their long-time talisman.

Pressure grows as World Cup campaign continues

The longer the drought continues, the more scrutiny Ronaldo is likely to face. His subdued display against DR Congo has already prompted fresh debate about his role in the side, particularly after a match in which he struggled for involvement and finished without a shot on target.

Yet writing off Ronaldo has often proved risky. Few players in football history have shown a greater ability to respond to pressure or deliver when expectations are at their highest.

With group-stage matches against Uzbekistan and Colombia still to come, Portugal will hope their captain can rediscover his scoring touch.