Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has been released from the national team camp ahead of their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Armenia, according to reports from Daily Mail. This development comes after the 39-year-old received a straight red card during Portugal’s 2–0 loss to Ireland on Thursday.
Ronaldo was dismissed following a VAR review, which showed him elbowing Dara O’Shea in a moment of frustration. Under FIFA rules, straight red cards in international fixtures attract a mandatory two-match suspension. As a result, the Al Nassr forward is now at risk of missing the opening match of what is widely expected to be his final World Cup appearance.
Portugal, despite their strong campaign, have not yet mathematically secured qualification for the 2026 tournament. The former European champions must defeat Armenia on Sunday to guarantee their place at next year’s finals.
However, the situation could become complicated: if Portugal draw and Hungary defeat Ireland by more than three goals, Roberto Martínez’s men would be forced into the playoff route to book their ticket.
Ronaldo’s absence adds significant pressure ahead of a decisive weekend for Portugal’s qualification hopes.
