Ronaldo lost his cool as Portugal tried to mount a comeback against Ireland on Thursday. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner let frustration get the better of him and elbowed a defender in the back, earning a red card that forced Portugal to play the final 30 minutes of the match with 10 men.

Cristiano Ronaldo is at serious risk of being banned for the first game of the 2026 World Cup if Portugal qualifies as expected

Ronaldo threw an elbow towards defender Dara O’Shea while the two tussled in the Ireland box and he was originally given a yellow card for the challenge, before a VAR review changed the decision and referee Glenn Nyberg sent off the 40-year-old in the 61st minute.

PORTUGAL are reportedly set to appeal Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup ban following his red card against the Republic of Ireland. The Al-Nassr striker was given his marching orders after

Cristiano Ronaldo has sent a message of support to his Portugal team-mates ahead of their meeting with Armenia. The Selecao currently top Group F ahead of the final round of World Cup qualification games but defeat to Ireland on Thursday means they need to win to book their trip stateside next summer.

According to reports, Portugal are 'preparing' to issue a 'complaint' to FIFA over Cristiano Ronaldo's red card against the Republic of Ireland.

Amid the possibility that the Ireland dismissal could see him miss the 2026 World Cup opener, the 40-year-old veteran set one unwanted record in the process.

Portugal certainly will not have drawn up the finish to their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign quite like this, entering the final match day against Armenia still needing to wrap up a spot at next summer's big dance.