Overview
- Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off against Ireland after a VAR review upgraded a yellow to a direct red for an elbow on Dara O’Shea.
- The dismissal is reported as the first red card of his international career with Portugal.
- He will miss Portugal’s next qualifier against Armenia at Estádio do Dragão, where direct 2026 World Cup qualification is at stake.
- Disciplinary officials are weighing a sanction reportedly in the one‑to‑three match range, which could affect the World Cup opener if extended.
- Coach Roberto Martínez called a heavy ban unjust and said Portugal will present evidence to contest a multi‑match suspension.