In the 59th minute, with Portugal trailing by two goals, Ronaldo elbowed defender Dara O’Shea inside the penalty area. From behind, he struck his elbow into his opponent's back. Referee Glenn Nyberg initially issued a yellow card. However, after VAR intervention, he reviewed the incident and immediately changed it to a direct red card.

Ronaldo reacts during Portugal's loss to Ireland at Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland, in the penultimate match of Group F, European Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, on the evening of 13/11/2025. Photo: Reuters

Ronaldo reacted by pouting, sarcastically clapping, and then giving a thumbs-up towards the host team's technical area. In the stands, Ireland fans responded with chants of "Messi! Messi!" and many mimicked the "fake crying" gesture Ronaldo had just performed. This marked Ronaldo's 13th career red card, but his first while representing the Portugal national team.

The red card not only forced Portugal to play with one less player for over 30 minutes but also put Ronaldo and the team at a disciplinary disadvantage. According to FIFA regulations, penalties for violent conduct, including elbowing, can range from one to three matches, depending on severity. If a player cannot serve the suspension during the remainder of the qualifying rounds, the ban automatically carries over to the World Cup finals.

This means if Ronaldo receives a two-match ban, he will miss Portugal's opening match at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. If he receives a three-match ban, Ronaldo will miss the first two World Cup matches, should Portugal qualify for the finals.

According to Athletic, Ronaldo's elbowing incident is unlikely to be taken lightly, and a ban of two or more matches is "very realistic". Argentine center-back Nicolas Otamendi also received a one-match World Cup suspension after a red card in the South American qualifiers.

The 0-2 loss to Ireland meant Portugal missed an early opportunity to secure their World Cup spot. Forward Troy Parrott's two goals kept the host nation's hopes alive for their first World Cup appearance since 2002. This was also Ireland's first official victory over Portugal in 30 years.

In the final qualifying match on 16/11, Portugal will host Armenia in Porto. A victory is enough for Roberto Martinez's squad to secure a World Cup berth. However, Ronaldo will certainly be absent from this match due to the automatic suspension for his direct red card. Portugal must also await the ruling from the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, which will determine the exact number of matches the 40-year-old forward will be suspended.

Hoang An (according to Athletic, beIN Sports)