Cristiano Ronaldo's Shocking Absence: The Real Reason He's Missing Portugal's Clash Against Armenia

Portugal face their last match of the year when they welcome Armenia for 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying action on Sunday, though they must overcome the underdogs without their suspended skipper.

Cristiano Ronaldo will be absent for the encounter that will determine Portugal's destiny. A win will secure their spot in next summer's competition, while dropping points at home against FIFA's 104th-ranked side could spell disaster with Hungary breathing down their necks.

Portugal should cruise to victory at the Estádio do Dragão even without international football's all-time top scorer, but it represents an unwelcome complication before such a crucial match.

So what's behind Ronaldo's absence for the current UEFA Nations League holders?

Why Is Cristiano Ronaldo Not Playing Against Armenia?

Ronaldo has only himself to fault for missing the Armenia fixture. The 40-year-old received his maiden international dismissal in his 226th cap during the previous outing, allowing his emotions to overwhelm him in Portugal's surprising 2–0 loss to the Republic of Ireland.

Troy Parrott's double before the break put Portugal in a dangerous spot, with Ronaldo's unnecessary elbow on Dara O'Shea just shy of the hour mark worsening their situation. Originally shown a yellow card, referee Glenn Nyberg changed Ronaldo's sanction to a red after VAR consultation at the pitchside monitor.

Portugal boss Roberto Martínez has appealed to FIFA to avoid giving Ronaldo an extended suspension for his moment of indiscipline, with a potential three-match penalty looming. For the time being though, the Al Nassr striker will serve just a single-game suspension, which applies to the Armenia clash.

When Will Cristiano Ronaldo Return for Portugal?

Should Ronaldo's elbow be classified as violent conduct following FIFA's disciplinary committee assessment, the suspension will stretch to three games. Since only competitive matches count toward the ban, the veteran could miss the first two games of the 2026 World Cup after sitting out the Armenia battle.

Ronaldo would remain eligible for any pre-tournament exhibition matches, but would miss the opening World Cup fixtures.

Currently, Portugal are unaware of their group stage rivals, but will learn their opponents after next month's draw on Friday, Dec. 5—assuming they qualify, naturally.

Portugal will pray Ronaldo's ban isn't lengthened ahead of what will likely be his farewell World Cup.