Cristiano Ronaldo Risks Missing World Cup Opener After First-Ever Portugal Red Card

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Cristiano Ronaldo may miss the opening game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after receiving the first red card of his international career during Portugal’s 2–0 loss to the Republic of Ireland on Thursday.

The 39-year-old Al Nassr striker was first shown a yellow card in the 61st minute for elbowing Irish defender Dara O’Shea during an aerial challenge. But after a VAR review, the referee upgraded the caution to a straight red for violent conduct.

The sending-off is Ronaldo’s first in 226 appearances for Portugal, although he has been dismissed 13 times at club level.

Possible World Cup Ban Looms

FIFA disciplinary regulations state that violent conduct carries a minimum one-match suspension, with the possibility of a three-match ban depending on the referee’s report and disciplinary committee review. Importantly, such suspensions apply only to competitive fixtures and cannot be served during friendly matches leading up to the World Cup.

This means Ronaldo’s availability for Portugal’s first match at the 2026 World Cup could now depend on the length of the ban issued by FIFA.

Portugal’s Missed Chance to Qualify Early

Portugal went into the Dublin clash needing a win to secure automatic qualification for the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. But a brace from Troy Parrott stunned Roberto Martínez’s side in front of a lively Aviva Stadium crowd.

Despite the defeat, Portugal remains top of Group F, two points ahead of Hungary. A win against Armenia on Sunday will seal their qualification — and potentially safeguard Ronaldo’s place in what would be a record-setting sixth World Cup appearance.

Ronaldo’s Tense History With Irish Fans

Ahead of Thursday’s match, Ronaldo had praised the Dublin atmosphere while joking about hoping to avoid being booed.

“I really like the fans here. The support they give to the national team is lovely,” he said. “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 after the red card, the Portuguese captain responded to jeering supporters with sarcastic claps and a thumbs-up as he exited the pitch.

His relationship with Irish fans has been strained since their previous meeting, when he was accused of influencing the referee moments before Rúben Neves scored a controversial last-minute winner.