Ronaldo’s Red Card Challenges Portugal’s World Cup Aspirations

Cristiano Ronaldo was issued a red card just after the hour mark for a deemed unsportsmanlike elbow on Dara O’Shea. Initially shown a yellow card, the decision was elevated to a red following a VAR review, much to the delight of the home crowd, who expressed their opinions vocally. In response, Ronaldo ironically applauded the fans as he exited the field and headed straight down the tunnel. His dismissal left Portugal at a significant disadvantage, trailing by two goals and now a player short for the remaining half hour of the match. This incident represents Ronaldo’s first red card while playing for the Portugal national team, and it will result in a suspension.

Prior to the match, Ronaldo had vowed to behave, expressing his excitement for the World Cup qualifier. He stated, “It’s a pleasure to come and play here again. Of course, it will be tough. I hope they don’t boo me too much tomorrow. I swear that I’m going to try to be a good boy. But of course, I do my job. I try to win the game and try to score to help my team. I’m sure that the game will be difficult.”

The Al-Nassr forward also acknowledged that the upcoming World Cup would be his last, given he will be 41 years old at that time. He reflected, “Definitely, yes, because I will be 41 years old and I think it will be the moment in the big competition. I’m enjoying the moments, but when I mean soon, it’s really soon because I give everything for football. I’m in the game for the last 25 years. I did everything. I have many records in different scenarios for the clubs and the national teams. I’m really proud; let’s enjoy the moment, live the moment.”

Ronaldo’s red card leads to a suspension, which is a significant blow to both the player and his team. He is expected to serve at least a two-match ban, which would exclude him from Portugal’s final World Cup qualifier against Armenia on Sunday, and potentially the first match of the tournament if Portugal qualifies automatically, as reported by BBC Sport’s Dale Johnson.

Portugal had traveled to Ireland with the intent of securing their place in the 2026 World Cup with a victory but returned home empty-handed and with challenges ahead. Coach Roberto Martinez’s side will look to regroup as they face Armenia in Lisbon on Sunday, where they are favored to secure all three points. A victory would guarantee them the top spot in their group, independent of other results, while Ireland competes against Hungary in their final fixture, with a win needed for either team to secure the runners-up position.