Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off in Portugal's 2-0 defeat to the Republic of Ireland, a red card that could result in him missing two World Cup group games. This was Ronaldo's first red card in 226 appearances for Portugal, and he automatically misses Portugal's final qualifier against Armenia due to the suspension. However, FIFA's disciplinary code could extend his ban to three matches if the offense is judged as "serious foul play" or "violent conduct," which would mean he misses one or even two of Portugal's opening group games in the 2026 finals. Portugal coach Roberto Martinez defended Ronaldo, suggesting the action looked worse than it was and that the player was being fouled repeatedly. Ronaldo himself had expressed hope before the match that he would "try to be a good boy."
