Ronaldo in danger of World Cup ban

In addition to missing out on a World Cup ticket in Dublin, Ireland, Portugal suffered a major setback. Cristiano Ronaldo was shown a red card by VAR in the 61st minute of the match for elbowing Ireland defender Dara O'Shea.

The 40-year-old superstar, who received his first red card in his international career, will have to serve a mandatory one-match ban. However, as a final blow to his career, he is at risk of a three-match ban under FIFA's disciplinary code. News - One Football

Ronaldo will have to sit out Portugal's next important match against Armenia due to the red card. If Portugal wins this match, it will directly qualify for the 2026 World Cup. According to FIFA's disciplinary code, 'a minimum two-match ban for serious foul play' and 'a minimum three-match ban for violent conduct' can be imposed, which includes elbowing. However, the ban will only apply to competitive matches, not friendly matches.

However, after the match, Portugal coach Roberto Martinez defended Ronaldo. He believes the red card decision was too harsh. The coach said, "He was stuck in the box for about 58-60 minutes, getting pushed around, and then Ronaldo actually tried to defend himself." According to Martinez, the act was less serious than it looked on camera.