CR7 FACES BIG BAN! Violent Conduct Red Card Means Up to 3-Match Suspension
In Portugal’s 2-0 loss to Ireland in Dublin, Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off with a straight red card just after the hour mark after a VAR review determined that his attack on Dara O’Shea constituted aggressive conduct. As a result, Ronaldo faces a long ban. He will probably miss Sunday’s qualifier against Armenia and maybe two more games according to FIFA regulations that impose a minimum three-match punishment for similar offenses. In such a scenario, he would miss the first games of what is anticipated to be his last World Cup. The punishment would instead take effect during those knockout games if Portugal were compelled to enter the playoffs. Before rendering a final decision, FIFA’s disciplinary committee will examine the event. Portugal’s lackluster effort culminated with Ronaldo’s ejection. Troy Parrott started the score in the 17th minute and added a second goal just before halftime, causing Portugal to capitulate early.
