Cristiano Ronaldo could be forced to sit out Portugal’s first match at the 2026 World Cup after being sent off in a game against Ireland.
The incident happened during Portugal’s 2-0 loss on Thursday. Ronaldo was first given a yellow card for hitting Ireland’s Dara O’Shea with his elbow. However, the video referee (VAR) told the main referee to check the replay. After looking at the screen, the referee changed the yellow card to a red and sent Ronaldo off.
This was Ronaldo’s first red card in his 226 games for Portugal, a record in men’s international football.
According to football’s world governing body, FIFA, a red card for violent conduct means a player must be banned for at least one important match. Because this was for an elbow, the ban could be even longer, possibly three games.
This means Ronaldo will miss at least Portugal’s first World Cup game next year.
Portugal’s World Cup Hopes Still Alive
Despite the loss, Portugal can still qualify for the World Cup. They remain at the top of their group, and a win in their final game on Sunday will secure their spot.
A Tense Relationship with Irish Fans
Before the game, Ronaldo said he hoped Irish fans would “not boo me too much” and promised to “be a good boy.”
After he was sent off, fans booed him as he walked off the field. Ronaldo responded by clapping and giving a sarcastic thumbs-up to the crowd.
This is not the first time Ronaldo has had issues with Irish fans. In a previous match, some accused him of having too much influence over the referee after Portugal scored a late winning goal.
