Cristiano Ronaldo could miss up to two World Cup matches after being sent off in Portugal's shock 1-0 loss to Ireland in Dublin. The red card, shown for an off-the-ball incident, leaves the veteran striker facing a potential suspension that would rule him out of key group-stage games.
The defeat was a major setback for Portugal, who had been expected to secure qualification comfortably. Ronaldo's dismissal came late in the match, compounding a frustrating night for the visitors as Ireland held on for a famous victory.
FIFA's disciplinary rules typically impose a two-match ban for violent conduct, which would see Ronaldo miss Portugal's next World Cup fixtures. The Portuguese Football Federation is expected to appeal, but the decision could have significant implications for the team's campaign.
Elsewhere in World Cup qualifying, Erling Haaland inspired Norway to a 4-1 win over Estonia, scoring twice after a calm half-time team talk. The striker also treated his teammates to dozens of cheeseburgers after the match, further boosting morale as Norway close in on a first World Cup appearance since 1998.
