Ronaldo’s Behavior Causes Red Card in Ireland Match

In the match held last Thursday in Dublin, Portugal lost 2–0 to Ireland. During a tense moment in the second half, Ronaldo elbowed Irish defender Dara O’Shea in the back. After a VAR review, the referee gave him a direct red card—his first in 226 matches for the national team.

Before the match, Ronaldo had alleged that the Irish coach warned referees about him. Halgrimsson denied this, saying, “It was entirely the result of his behavior on the field. If I had really been in his head, that would be surprising. I had no other role.”

The Irish coach added that Ronaldo’s action was “a moment of foolishness.” The red card will result in at least a one-match suspension, though FIFA disciplinary rules could impose a ban of two or more games for serious misconduct.

Meanwhile, Portugal coach Roberto Martinez described the decision as somewhat harsh, saying, “It was less serious than it appeared. He was being pushed continuously for 60 minutes and was just trying to find space.” However, Martinez acknowledged that the referee had to follow the call since the camera angle showed an elbow strike.

Portugal, top of Group F, has already secured a playoff spot. Ireland is in third place. In the final round, Portugal will face Armenia, while Ireland will play in Hungary.