Key Highlights
- Cristiano Ronaldo received a red card during Portugal’s World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland.
- Ronaldo clashed with Dara O’Shea in the Irish penalty area, leading to the referee showing him a yellow and then a red card after review.
- Portugal boss Roberto Martinez defended Ronaldo but accused Hallgrimsson of mind games before the match.
- Hallgrimsson suggested that Ronaldo’s actions on the pitch cost him the red card, saying it had nothing to do with him unless he got into Ronaldo’s head.
Incident During World Cup Qualifier
During Portugal’s World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland on November 14, 2025, Cristiano Ronaldo faced a significant moment that could impact his future in international football. The incident unfolded when Ronaldo, who was already having a frustrating night, clashed with Dara O’Shea in the Irish penalty area during the hour mark of the match.
According to reports, the 40-year-old Portuguese superstar jostled for position as he awaited a cross and inadvertently shunted his elbow into O’Shea’s back, causing the Ipswich defender to tumble to the turf. The incident sparked a strong reaction from both Irish players and fans at Aviva Stadium.
Referee Glenn Nyberg initially showed Ronaldo a yellow card but later consulted with the video assistant referee (VAR) before deciding on a red card. Ronaldo’s frustration seemed palpable as he sarcastically applauded the Irish supporters and exchanged words with Republic of Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson, eventually exiting the field.
Conflict Between Managers
The incident between Ronaldo and O’Shea was not the only contentious moment during the match. In his eve-of-match news conference, Hallgrimsson had previously criticized Ronaldo for allegedly controlling the referee in a previous meeting. When asked about their touchline exchange, Hallgrimsson said, “It was his action on the pitch that cost him the red card.
It had nothing to do with me – unless I got into his head.”
Roberto Martinez, Portugal’s manager, defended his captain but also took a shot at Hallgrimsson for speaking about the referee in the build-up to the match. Martinez stated, “The red card is just a captain that has never been sent off before in 226 games – I think that just deserves credit—and today, I thought it was a bit harsh because he cares about the team.”
Martinez further elaborated on Ronaldo’s situation, saying, “He was 60 minutes or 58 minutes in the box being grabbed, being pulled, being pushed and obviously when he tries to get away from the defender. I think the action looks worse than what it actually is.” Martinez’s comments suggest that while he defended his star player, he also acknowledged some degree of foul play.
Potential Impact on World Cup
The red card could have significant implications for Ronaldo’s future with Portugal, especially if they qualify for the 2026 World Cup in North America. According to FIFA’s disciplinary code, chapter two, Article 14(i) states that players can be suspended from at least three matches or an appropriate period of time for violent conduct, including elbowing.
Should Ronaldo receive a ban and Portugal qualify automatically, he could miss the first two group games in North America. However, if they drop into the play-offs, Ronaldo would still serve his suspension during those games.
The ultimate decision will be made by a disciplinary committee, but it is clear that this incident has left a bitter taste for both managers involved.
Ronaldo’s return to Dublin was described as “hugely dramatic,” marking an unexpected yet intriguing spat between the superstar and Hallgrimsson. Fans of both teams will undoubtedly keep a close eye on how this situation unfolds, especially given Ronaldo’s status as one of football’s all-time greats.
