'Started thinking that I might never catch Daei'

Cristiano Ronaldo warned that he was not done bagging international goals just yet after shattering Iranian footballer Ali Daei's record for the most international goals.

The Manchester United forward had to bide his time, but after being denied numerous times, he finally broke the deadlock with two late strikes in stoppage time.

"I can't even start to express myself in words! I'm thrilled with an overwhelming sensation! Let's go, Portugal! Let's go!," Ronaldo wrote on Instagram.

"From all the records that I have broken during my career – and fortunately there have been a few – this one is very special for me and it's certainly on the shelf of the achievements that make me truly proud. First of all, because every time I represent my country is a special moment, for knowing that I'm defending Portugal and showing to the world what Portuguese people are made of.

"Secondly, because national competitions have always had a very strong impact on me as I was growing up, watching my idols playing for their flags every other summer in the Euros and in World Cups. But finally and above all, because scoring 111 goals for Portugal means 111 moments like the ones we experienced today in Algarve, moments of worldwide union and happiness for millions and millions of Portuguese citizens all around the Globe. For them, every sacrifice is worth it."

Ronaldo also paid tribute to the "Shahriar", whose record stood since his retirement in 2006.

"Another reason for me to appreciate this achievement as much as I do right now, is because Ali Daei has set the standards in such a high level, that at some point even I started thinking that I might never catch him. Congratulations to the "Shariar" for holding the record for so long and thanks for always showing so much respect for me every time I scored and as I became closer and closer to his outstanding number."

He signed of with messages of thanks, writing: "Thank you Portugal. Thanks to all my teammates and opponents for making this journey so unforgettable. Let's keep meeting inside the pitch in the years to come! I'm not closing the count just yet…"