The Portuguese Football Federation is mounting a formal challenge to FIFA following Cristiano Ronaldo's controversial dismissal during the national team's World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland. The appeal seeks to minimise the length of the veteran striker's suspension.
The Incident and Immediate Fallout
The dramatic sending-off occurred during Portugal's 2-0 defeat to Ireland on Thursday night. Ronaldo, aged 40, was initially shown a yellow card by referee Glenn Nyberg for an off-the-ball incident where he swung an elbow towards Irish defender Dara O'Shea. However, following an intervention from the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), Nyberg reviewed the footage and upgraded the sanction to a red card.
This decision triggers an automatic one-game ban, ruling Ronaldo out of Portugal's crucial World Cup qualifying match against Armenia on Sunday. With Portugal currently topping their group, a victory in that fixture would secure their place in next summer's tournament.
Potential for an Extended World Cup Ban
The immediate suspension is just the start of Ronaldo's worries. The case will now be reviewed by FIFA's disciplinary committee, which has the power to impose a significantly longer ban. Under FIFA's disciplinary code, the nature of the offence means Ronaldo could face 'at least two matches for serious foul play' or 'at least three matches for violent conduct'.
Such a punishment would see the all-time leading Portuguese goalscorer miss the start of the World Cup next year. According to reports, the verdict from FIFA is expected after a typical three-week deliberation period following World Cup qualifying matches.
Portugal's Three-Pronged Defence Strategy
According to Portuguese outlet Record, the federation's president, Pedro Proenca, is preparing a robust case to present to FIFA. The appeal is reportedly built on three key arguments designed to persuade the governing body that a lengthier ban is unjust.
The first point centres on the hostile atmosphere in Dublin. The Portuguese camp believes this was intentionally cultivated by Ireland's head coach, Heimir Hallgrimsson, who had previously accused Ronaldo of 'controlling the referee' in the reverse fixture in Lisbon.
Secondly, Portugal will argue that Ronaldo was constantly manhandled and goaded throughout the match, which they claim led to his reaction. Finally, and perhaps most compellingly for his defence, the federation will highlight the absence of any precedent in Ronaldo's long international career. The red card was his first in 226 appearances for the national side, a record they hope will count in his favour.
The outcome of this appeal carries immense weight, not just for Ronaldo's legendary international career, but for Portugal's prospects as they aim to confirm their World Cup qualification and build momentum for the tournament itself.
