Al-Nassr icon Cristiano Ronaldo has broken an unwanted record of missing the most number of penalties in the history of sport, surpassing Lionel Messi's record. This happened during Portugal's close 1-0 win over the Republic of Ireland in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Saturday, October 11.
Selecao were awarded a penalty in the 73rd minute after a handball inside the box by Dara O'Shea. With the score tied at 0-0, Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up to the spot. However, former Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher made an amazing save two minutes later to deny the 40-year-old. Fortunately for Portugal, Ruben Neves produced the winner in the first minute of stoppage time to spare Ronaldo's blushes.
Cristiano Ronaldo breaks Lionel Messi's forgetful record
Cristiano Ronaldo broke Lionel Messi's record after his penalty mistake and has now missed 34 penalties in his long career, consisting of four in the past year. However, Ronaldo has scored the most penalties and remains secure, having scored 177 out of his 211 penalties.
Previously, Lionel Messi had the feat of missing the most number of penalties with 32, but is currently second on the list. The Argentine has netted 113 out of his 145 penalties.
LaLiga star backs Cristiano Ronaldo after penalty miss against Ireland
Portugal defender Renato Veiga has backed his teammate Cristiano Ronaldo after he missed a penalty in their 1-0 win against Ireland. The 40-year-old was denied from the spot by Caoimhin Kelleher as he stumbled in his race to 1000 professional goals.
Interacting with the reporters after the match, Veiga pointed out that the Al-Nassr player has no need to apologise to the fans for his miss. He said that Ronaldo's past efforts should provide enough goodwill and absolve him of any criticism that may arise in situations similar to this.
“Did Ronaldo apologise for missing? He does not need to apologise, he’s given everything to Portugal and continues to do so", he said (via @TouchlineX).
Ronaldo missed the penalty in the 78th minute of the game after a dogged defensive display from Ireland for most of the match. The winner eventually came after the 90th minute, as Ruben Neves headed home a cross from Trinicao.