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13 March, 2026, 1:42 am
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Ronaldo clear for World Cup opener despite red card

Ronaldo clear for World Cup opener despite red card

By Mansi Chand
26/11/2025
Photo : BBC Sports

Cristiano Ronaldo will be able to play for Portugal in their opening game at next summer's World Cup finals despite his red card against the Republic of Ireland.

Ronaldo was sent off for an elbow to Dara O'Shea during Portugal's 2-0 qualifying defeat earlier this month.

Violent conduct normally carries a three-match ban but Ronaldo has had the second and third matches suspended for a year.

It is believed that his first red card in 226 international appearances was taken into account.

In a statement, FIFA says that if Ronaldo commits another infringement of a similar nature, the suspension set out in the disciplinary decision shall be deemed automatically revoked and the remaining two matches must be served immediately.

The World Cup will be held from 9th June to 19th July, 2026.

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