Portuguese coach Roberto Martinez has defended captain Cristiano Ronaldo, stating that his direct red card during Portugal's World Cup 2026 qualifier loss to Ireland on 13/11 was unwarranted. Martinez insisted that Ronaldo's actions were not violent, despite the VAR review.

Speaking to RTP after the match at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Martinez explained, "This match was difficult because Ronaldo was tightly marked by two center-backs, creating constant pressure and contact. There was no violent act here; he was only trying to push his opponent away to find space. VAR made the situation worse, as the camera angle made the push look like malicious intent. This is Ronaldo's first red card for the national team, truly unbelievable."

Ronaldo "mock cries" to taunt his opponent during Portugal's loss to Ireland at Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland, in the penultimate match of Group F, European Qualifiers, World Cup 2026 on the evening of 13/11. *Photo: INPHO*

Martinez confirmed he encouraged the 40-year-old superstar in the locker room. "I told him that he has helped the team win many matches and will continue to do so," the Spanish coach revealed. "Even when we were a man down, we still showed good spirit. The important thing now is to win the next match."

The incident occurred in the 59th minute, with Portugal already trailing by two goals. Ronaldo was seen using his elbow on Dara O’Shea's back before making a mock crying gesture to taunt the Ireland player. Referee Glenn Nyberg initially issued a yellow card, but after VAR intervention, the decision was upgraded to a direct red card.

Coach Roberto Martinez during the loss to Ireland. *Photo: Lusa*

Following the red card, the Portugal captain reacted visibly, pouting, clapping sarcastically, and giving a thumbs up. Ireland fans in the stands responded by chanting "Messi! Messi!" and mimicking Ronaldo's "mock crying" gesture. The 40-year-old forward also engaged in an argument with Ireland's coach, Heimir Hallgrimsson.

In the post-match press conference, Hallgrimsson recounted Ronaldo's words to him: "You put pressure on the referee. Are you happy now?" The 58-year-old coach countered, affirming that the red card stemmed solely from Ronaldo's behavior and not from any influence on his part. "Of course, I am happy when the opponent loses their best player, but the attitude that led to the red card was his own," Hallgrimsson stated. "I did not influence anything."

Hallgrimsson also noted that the match unfolded according to Ireland's game plan. The home team adopted a deep defensive strategy, capitalizing on quick counter-attacks and set-piece opportunities. This approach led to Ireland's two first-half goals, both scored by striker Troy Parrott.

A direct red card means Ronaldo could face a suspension ranging from one to three matches. Portugal has one final World Cup 2026 qualifier remaining, scheduled against Armenia in Porto on 16/11. Should Ronaldo be unable to serve his full suspension during the qualifiers, he would be banned for the initial matches of the World Cup 2026 finals.

Portugal has already secured at least a spot in the second round of the European qualifiers. If they fail to secure direct qualification for the World Cup, Ronaldo would serve any remaining suspension in these second-round matches, thus avoiding a ban during the finals. However, progressing through the second qualification round also carries the risk of Portugal's elimination from the tournament.

Xuan Binh (according to O Jogo)