Cristiano Ronaldo received his first career red card while playing for Portugal, during a 2–0 World Cup qualifier loss to Ireland. The sending-off came in his 226th senior international
appearance and occurred after a VAR review found that he had elbowed Irish defender Dara O'Shea.
Career Context
13th Career Red Card: While this was Ronaldo's first red card for his national team, it was the 13th of his professional career.
Potential World Cup Impact: According to FIFA rules, suspensions for violent conduct can carry over to the World Cup.
This means Ronaldo could be suspended for Portugal's first game of the 2026 tournament if his ban is for two or more matches.