Cristiano Ronaldo’s Red Card Drama Hands Portugal a Major Blow
In a swooping twist late on Thursday, Portugal endured a stinging 2-0 defeat to the Republic of Ireland in Dublin; a result that not only delayed their automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but saw Cristiano Ronaldo sent off in dramatic fashion. The Irish struck twice in the first half through Troy Parrott — the first from a header just after 15 minutes, and the second right before half time. Portugal, needing a win to confirm their place, were unable to break through. Around the 60th minute mark, Ronaldo was booked for swinging an elbow at Irish defender Dara O’Shea. The initial yellow was upgraded to a red card after a VAR review. The dismissal means Ronaldo will definitely miss Portugal’s final qualifiers, including their clash with Armenia. Because the offence falls under “violent conduct” (elbowing an opponent), and his suspension could be extended to three matches, potentially affecting Portugal’s opening games at the World Cup, should they qualify Portugal’s coach Roberto Martínez described the decision as “a bit harsh”. He pointed out that Ronaldo, after 226 international appearances, had never before been sent off. Martínez claimed the footage made the incident look worse than he believed it to be, insisting Ronaldo was being impeded and frustrated. With Portugal’s setback and Ireland picking up momentum, Group F of the European qualifying section becomes dramatically more open. Meanwhile, France booked their place at the 2026 World Cup thanks to a resounding 4-0 victory over Ukraine, led by a double from Kylian Mbappé. Erling Haaland also helped Norway demolish Estonia 4-1, putting them on the brink of qualification. Portugal now travel to Armenia, knowing they must win and may still face the playoffs rather than automatic qualification. For Ronaldo, the stakes are enormous: if the three match ban comes into effect, his campaign at the 2026 World Cup could begin from the sideline.
| 2025-11-14 13:39:49