The 40-year-old was forced to miss out on his country’s final World Cup qualifier against Armenia after he was sent off in Portugal’s shock 2–0 defeat to the Republic of Ireland last time out. Ronaldo caught Dara O’Shea with a trailing elbow and saw red for the first time in his 22-year international career.

In their last two World Cup qualifier matches, Portugal drew 2-2 with Hungary and lost 2-0 to Ireland, where Cristiano Ronaldo received a red card.

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.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was absent for Portugal’s 9–0 victory over Luxembourg in September 2023 and his reckless red card against Ireland last time out ensured he was sidelined for Sunday’s decisive qualifier.

Cristiano Ronaldo is heading to another World Cup. Portugal sealed its place at next year's tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico with a 9-1 rout of Armenia on Sunday. Ronaldo missed the match in Porto because of suspension — but in his absence, Portugal ensured he would have the chance to appear at a record sixth World Cup.