The information was given by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), with Cristiano Ronaldo relieved from duties, given that he cannot be in Sunday's game at the Estádio do Dragão, the final qualifying match for Group F of the 2026 World Cup.

The Portuguese national team captain received a straight red card in the 61st minute of the match in Dublin, when Portugal was losing 2-0, after an incident in which he elbowed an opponent, with the video assistant referee (VAR) indicating a straight red card.

In his 226th appearance for the Portuguese national team, and after 22 years playing for the Portuguese senior team, the 40-year-old Al Nassr striker received his first red card for the national team.

On the other hand, it is the 13th time Ronaldo has been sent off in his entire career, having accumulated 12 red cards for various clubs he has played for: six for Real Madrid, five for Manchester United, and one for Juventus.

On Sunday, a victory would secure Portugal first place in the group and direct qualification, but a draw or even a defeat could also be enough if Hungary and Ireland draw on the same day.

The 2026 World Cup will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, between June 11 and July 19, and will be contested by 48 teams.