Ronaldo reaction after he received first red card of his International career as Portugal Fall 2–0 to Ireland

Cristiano Ronaldo received the first red card of his international career as Portugal fell 2-0 to the Republic of Ireland in a World Cup qualifier.  

Cristiano Ronaldo, the legendary Portuguese forward, experienced an unprecedented moment in his illustrious international career. In his 226th appearance for Portugal, the 40-year-old was shown a red card for the very first time. The dismissal came in the 61st minute after Ronaldo elbowed Ireland defender Dara O’Shea during a tussle for possession. Initially cautioned with a yellow card, the referee upgraded the decision to red following a VAR review.  

The incident overshadowed a disappointing night for Portugal, who struggled to impose themselves at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Ireland secured a 2-0 victory, with Troy Parrott scoring both goals — the first in the 17th minute and another just before halftime in the 45th.  

Ronaldo’s reaction to the sending-off was equally dramatic. As he left the pitch, he sarcastically applauded the home supporters, visibly frustrated by the referee’s decision. The red card not only marked a historic first for his national team career but also leaves him facing a potential two-match suspension, jeopardizing Portugal’s qualification campaign.  

Despite his remarkable record — over two decades of service, countless goals, and leadership on the international stage — this moment serves as a reminder that even the greatest players are not immune to controversy. For Portugal, the focus now shifts to regrouping without their talisman as they continue their push toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup.