Cristiano Ronaldo Faces Major World Cup Concern After Ireland Red Card

Cristiano Ronaldo could be handed a World Cup blow after his red card against the Republic of Ireland.

On Thursday night, Ronaldo and the Portugal players travelled to the Aviva Stadium to take on Ireland.

The visitors were looking to seal their place in next summer's tournament by securing all three points.

Meanwhile, Ireland were fighting to keep their World Cup dream alive.

During what was a spectacular first half, AZ Alkmaar striker Troy Parrott scored twice to give Ireland a shock 2-0 lead.

In the second half, with 61 minutes on the clock, Ronaldo saw what was originally a yellow card, upgraded to a red after an intervention by VAR.

Replays showed that the 40-year-old swung his elbow at Ireland defender Dara O'Shea, hence the red card.

The red card against Ireland was Ronaldo's first international sending-off for Portugal, having played for his country 226 times.

Cristiano Ronaldo saw red as Portugal suffered a shock defeat to the Republic of Ireland. Image: Getty

Looking ahead, Ronaldo is set to face a two-match ban as a result of his actions, which could turn out to be a big blow at the World Cup.

The first of the two-match suspension will be served against Armenia on Sunday, with the second due to be taken at the first game of next summer's World Cup, assuming they automatically qualify.

BBC football correspondent Dale Johnson wrote on social media: "Cristiano Ronaldo is set to miss Portugal's first game of the World Cup after being sent off on VAR review for violent conduct.

"He should get a two-game ban which would be served vs. Armenia on Sunday and the first game of the World Cup. (Assuming Portugal qualify auto)."

Speaking after the match, Ireland hero Parrott said: "This is probably the best night I have had in my entire life, I have no words to describe it. We all know how important this game was for us, particularly after the other result tonight. I am overwhelmed. I don't know what words to use, but I am over the moon."

Meanwhile, ex-Ireland midfielder Ronnie Whelan said on RTE: "I really enjoyed how the Republic of Ireland played, especially in the first half, and how they defended so well."

Ireland will now have to win against Hungary on Sunday afternoon to have a chance of going to the World Cup.