World Cup Ruiz Proud Ronaldo and Messi Were Chasing His Record
Author : Football World Cup Tickets | Published On : 30 Oct 2025
For over two decades, Carlos Ruiz represented the heart and soul of Guatemalan football. Known affectionately as El Pescadito (The Little Fish), he became one of the most successful goal scorers in FIFA World Cup qualifying history. His consistency, leadership, and dedication to his country made him an icon in Central America and beyond.
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Even after Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo broke his long-standing record, Ruiz remains proud to be part of football history and to have inspired new generations of Guatemalan players. Ruiz’s story is more than about numbers. It reflects national pride, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of a dream.
To see Guatemala, qualify for its first-ever FIFA World Cup. As Guatemala now battles for a spot in the 2026 tournament, Ruiz continues to be a source of inspiration both on and off the field. His career stands as a testament to the power of belief, discipline, and patriotism in sports.
World Cup A Record That Defined an Era
Carlos Ruiz’s journey to the top of the World Cup qualifying charts was not built overnight. Across five qualification cycles from 2002 to 2018. He scored an incredible 39 goals in 47 matches, a record that lasted for nearly nine years. This achievement placed him above global legends until Cristiano Ronaldo eventually surpassed him. Yet, Ruiz’s accomplishment carries unique significance, as he achieved it while representing a smaller footballing nation with limited resources and global recognition.
During the early 2000s, Ruiz was the face of Guatemalan football. His ability to deliver consistent performances against regional giants like the United States, Mexico, and Costa Rica earned him respect across CONCACAF. He scored eight goals in nine matches during the 2002 qualifiers, followed by ten more for the 2006 campaign. His work ethic, leadership, and resilience allowed him to sustain a competitive level for nearly two decades. A rare feat for any professional athlete.
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Ruiz acknowledges that his international experience playing abroad kept him sharp and motivated. Competing in professional leagues outside Guatemala helped him maintain the rhythm and physical form required to perform at the highest level for his national team, a standard of excellence inspired by his dream of one day seeing Guatemala compete in a FIFA World Cup Final.
Football World Cup 2026 Ronaldo, Messi, and the Meaning of Legacy
When Cristiano Ronaldo broke Ruiz’s record, it was a moment that symbolized respect rather than rivalry. Ruiz expressed pride that two of the greatest players in football history. Ronaldo and Lionel Messi were chasing his record. He recognized that such achievements gain global attention only when held by superstars of that magnitude, yet he remains content knowing he once stood among them.
In his interview with FIFA, Ruiz explained that records are temporary, but legacy endures. He takes greater pride in having represented Guatemala with honor and passion than in the statistics themselves. To him, every goal scored was a tribute to his nation and its fans, who shared his dream of seeing Guatemala reach the World Cup.
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The emotional value of his journey goes beyond football. It represents the struggle of smaller nations to achieve recognition on the global stage, the resilience of athletes from developing football regions, and the belief that determination can overcome limitations. Ruiz’s humility and gratitude reflect why fans across Latin America continue to admire him.
Guatemala Road to the FIFA World Cup 2026
Today, Guatemala is closer than ever to making its World Cup dream come true. Under head coach Luis Fernando Tena, the national team currently stands third in Group A of the third round of CONCACAF qualifiers, just one point behind Panama and Suriname. The upcoming November matches will be crucial, with both Panama and Suriname set to visit Guatemala. Victories in these home fixtures could secure the nation’s first-ever ticket to the FIFA World Cup.
For Ruiz, this potential milestone represents the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. He believes that qualifying for the 2026 tournament. Set to take place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Would forever transform football in Guatemala. It would bring investment, enthusiasm, and a new generation of young players inspired to wear the national jersey.
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Guatemala’s campaign embodies the same persistence that defined Ruiz’s career. Every match is an opportunity to build history and unite the country under one goal—to finally take part in the world’s most celebrated sporting event.
Soccer World Cup A Symbol of Hope for Future Generations
Even in retirement, Carlos Ruiz continues to influence Guatemalan football. His dedication, humility, and national pride serve as a guiding example for future players. He frequently emphasizes that football is not only about personal glory but about representing one’s nation with honor and integrity.
His story continues to inspire aspiring athletes who dream of international recognition. Ruiz’s message to them is clear: talent alone is not enough; discipline, teamwork, and national pride make the real difference. Whether as a player, mentor, or symbol of perseverance, Ruiz remains one of Guatemala’s greatest ambassadors in the world of football.
As the nation looks ahead to the FIFA World Cup 2026, Ruiz’s journey stands as a reminder that dreams once thought impossible can be achieved through dedication and faith. For Guatemalan fans, El Pescadito will always be more than a goal scorer. He is a living emblem of hope, pride, and the enduring spirit of Guatemalan football.
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FAQs
Who is Carlos Ruiz, and why is he important to Guatemalan football?
Carlos Ruiz, also known as El Pescadito (The Little Fish), is one of Guatemala’s most legendary footballers. He scored 39 goals in FIFA World Cup qualifying matches and became the all-time top scorer in qualifiers for nearly nine years. His leadership and dedication inspired generations of Guatemalan players.
What record did Carlos Ruiz hold in FIFA World Cup qualifying?
Ruiz held the record for the most goals scored in FIFA World Cup qualifying history, with 39 goals in 47 matches. This remarkable achievement stood until Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo broke it, highlighting Ruiz’s extraordinary consistency over two decades.
How did Carlos Ruiz react when Cristiano Ronaldo broke his record?
Rather than feeling disappointed, Ruiz expressed pride that football legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi were the ones chasing his record. He viewed it as an honor and a sign of respect, emphasizing that true legacy is about national pride, not statistics.
What is Ruiz’s dream for Guatemalan football?
Ruiz’s greatest dream is to see Guatemala qualify for its first-ever FIFA World Cup. He believes that achieving this milestone in 2026 would transform the nation’s football landscape and inspire new generations to pursue excellence.
How close is Guatemala to qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026?
Under coach Luis Fernando Tena, Guatemala currently ranks third in Group A of the CONCACAF qualifiers, just one point behind Panama and Suriname. With upcoming decisive matches, the team stands a real chance of earning a historic first-ever World Cup spot.
