Saturday’s FIFA Confederations Cup Russia 2017 warm-up match between Mexico and Croatia in Los Angeles saw Javier Hernandez score his 47th international goal and become El Tri’s all-time leading scorer, just a few days short of his 29th birthday.

Coming on in the second half of the contest, which ended in a 2-1 win for the Croatians, Chicharito (“Little Pea”) headed home from a free-kick to move past Jared Borgetti at the top of the list of Mexican marksmen.

“Congratulations, Chicharito! You finally broke the 46-goal record,” said Borgetti after hearing the news. “I’m happy you’ve broken it because that’s what records are for. Now take it even higher! Take it to 60, 70 goals and set a target for future players so they can score lots of wins for the national team.”

Hernandez began his Tri career a little over seven years ago under Javier Aguirre, and opened his international account in a 5-0 friendly win over Bolivia.

He went on that year to score twice at the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, against France in the group phase and Argentina in the Round of 16. He also found the back of the net at Brazil 2014, in his country’s final group match, against Croatia.

A lethal finisher with a nose for goalscoring, Hernandez has developed his game in recent years, linking up with team-mates outside the penalty box and working hard to create space for them. He has even revealed a gift for scoring from distance.

Chicharito is currently busy preparing for Russia 2017 with the national team. The Mexicans have been drawn in Group A with the host nation, New Zealand and Portugal. On a high after his historic achievement, the striker will be looking to consolidate his place at the top of Mexico’s scoring charts in Russia.

“This is for all of you, brothers,” said an emotional Chicharito after receiving a tribute from the Mexican FA (FMF) and his team-mates in the dressing-room. “I hope we can convert this trophy into another little golden one, which is what all of us want at the Confederations Cup.”