Cristiano Ronaldo is ‘sent home’ from Portugal camp after his straight red card against Ireland.
Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly been “sent home” from Portugal’s national team camp following a straight red card he received in a World Cup qualifying match against Ireland. The incident occurred during Portugal’s 2–0 loss in Dublin, where Ronaldo elbowed Irish defender Dara O’Shea in the second half.
The red card was not given immediately the referee initially showed him a yellow, but after a VAR review at the pitch-side monitor, the decision was upgraded to a straight red for violent conduct. This marks the first time Ronaldo has been sent off in his 226 senior appearances for Portugal.
Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martínez, defended his captain, calling the red card “a bit harsh.” He suggested the contact looked worse than it was and argued Ronaldo was reacting because he was being physically challenged in the box.
Republic of Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson said later that Ronaldo may have reacted out of frustration. He claimed Ronaldo even blamed him for influencing the referee.
The implications are serious for Ronaldo. Because he received a straight red, he’s already suspended for Portugal’s next qualifier against Armenia. Depending on the disciplinary review, the ban could extend into the potential World Cup group-stage matches, raising doubts about his participation in what could be his final World Cup.
