Ronaldo's Red Card Ruins Portugal's Night as World Cup History Slips Through His Fingers

Standing on the threshold of World Cup legacy, Cristiano Ronaldo was dismissed with a red card for aggressive behavior during Portugal's 2–0 loss to the Republic of Ireland on Thursday night.

The 40-year-old superstar had the opportunity to cement his position for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico next summer, where he would become one of only two players alongside Lionel Messi to participate in six different men's World Cups throughout history.

However, everything unraveled for Ronaldo and Portugal at Dublin's Aviva Stadium. While controlling the opening phases of the match, Roberto Martínez's squad found themselves down by two goals before the break. A double strike from Troy Parrott shocked the away team, who entered the qualifying fixture riding a seven-match undefeated run.

The situation deteriorated further for the current UEFA Nations League titleholders in the 59th minute. Ronaldo initially received a yellow card for making contact with Dara O'Shea using his trailing elbow, but following a VAR review, referee Glenn Nyberg produced a red card, ruling it as violent conduct.

The Portuguese skipper sarcastically clapped the referee's decision and the spectators as he gradually exited the field. Ronaldo offered the booing Irish supporters a thumbs up gesture before engaging in heated exchanges with match officials and Ireland's coaching staff along the sideline.

The dismissal, occurring in his 226th match for Portugal, marked the first red card in an international journey that commenced back in 2003. With a ban approaching, the Real Madrid icon has most likely participated in his final World Cup qualifying match.

Portugal's 2026 World Cup Qualification in Jeopardy

What began as an flawless qualifying campaign for Portugal has rapidly deteriorated. The Euro 2016 champions have now lost points against Hungary and Ireland in consecutive fixtures.

Portugal had the chance to guarantee automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup with victories over either opponent, but they fell short in both encounters. Currently, Martínez's team faces uncertainty regarding their position in Group F—they maintain just a two-point advantage over second-placed Hungary.

If Portugal falters against Armenia without Ronaldo in their remaining 2026 World Cup qualifier in the upcoming days, Hungary could seize first place by defeating Ireland.

Following their campaign launch with three straight victories, being forced into playoff qualification for the 2026 World Cup would represent a significant disappointment for Portugal.