Portugal and Al-Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo could miss the start of the 2026 World Cup after receiving a straight red card in Thursday’s qualifier against Ireland. The 39-year-old was sent off for elbowing Dara O’Shea, with VAR upholding the decision.
Playing a man down, Portugal failed to recover at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium as Troy Parrott struck twice in the first half to seal a 2–0 win for Ireland.
Portugal remain top of Group F, but their qualification path is now more delicate. A win at home to Armenia will secure automatic qualification; however, any slip could allow Hungary or Ireland, who face each other on Sunday back into contention.
Ronaldo’s World Cup availability now depends on the length of his suspension. A ban exceeding one match could carry into the group stage. For example, a two-game suspension would rule him out of the Armenia clash and Portugal’s World Cup opener. If Portugal fail to beat Armenia, the same ban would see him miss the first leg of a potential play-off.
Ireland coach Heimir Hallgrimsson revealed Ronaldo accused him of pressuring the referee, but insisted the dismissal was solely down to the player’s actions. The coach added that his team could have won by more, praising the home supporters for driving the performance.
Despite this victory, Ireland may still regret earlier dropped points, including a 2–1 loss to Armenia in September. Nonetheless, a win away to Hungary on Sunday guarantees Ireland at least a play-off spot — and could even see them top the group if Portugal falter.
