NEW footage of Cristiano Ronaldo’s red card against Ireland has emerged, with fans backing the Portuguese legend.
Ronaldo, 40, was given his marching orders after taking a swipe at Irish star Dara O’Shea during his country’s penultimate World Cup qualifier.
In the 61st minute, O’Shea fell to the ground after a struggle in the area with the legendary striker while waiting for a cross.
Referee Glenn Nyberg initially responded to the incident by showing Ronaldo a yellow card.
However, a VAR review prompted him to look again and see how the Portuguese star had smashed his elbow into the defender.
Nyberg decided to upgrade the penalty to a red card – the first of Ronaldo’s international career.
CHRISTIAN
Ronaldo faces World Cup heartache and extended suspension after red for elbow against Ireland
The striker was less than impressed with the decision as he could be seen clapping sarcastically as he left the pitch.
He had also made a fake crying face to O’Shea after the incident.
But he could have few complaints as new footage has clearly shown the moment – even if some fans initially thought it wasn’t a red card.
Ronaldo can be seen sticking his elbow and making painful contact with O’Shea’s back.
BEST FREE BETTS AND BETTING SIGNUP OFFERS
The decision means the Al-Nassr star is in danger of missing the start of next summer’s World Cup finals.
In the event of a straight red card, the one-match ban could also potentially be upgraded to a multi-match ban.
A UEFA disciplinary committee will now decide Ronaldo’s fate regarding his suspension.
Due to the violent nature of the broadcast, it does not bode well for his goal of competing in Portugal’s 2026 World Cup opener.
The 2-0 defeat against Ireland on Thursday evening had no influence on Portugal’s place in Group F.
Ronaldo and co were defeated by a brace from former Tottenham Hotspur striker Troy Parrott.
They are still in pole position to qualify as they currently have a two-point lead over second-placed Hungary.
Portugal’s last World Cup qualifier is on Sunday against Armenia, for which Ronaldo will receive a suspension.
FIFA’s disciplinary code, Chapter Two, Article 14(i), is clear and suggests Ronaldo should be suspended for more than one match.
It reads: “Players and officials will be suspended for misconduct as specified below.
“At least three matches or an appropriate period for assault, including elbowing, punching, kicking, biting, spitting or hitting an opponent or any person other than a match official.”
If Portugal make the play-offs, he would serve his suspension and be available for the tournament if they qualify.
Portuguese manager Roberto Martinez believes the incident looked “worse” than it was and believes the broadcast was harsh.
He said: “The red card is just a captain who has never been sent off before in 226 games – I think that just deserves credit.
“I thought it was a bit harsh because he cares about the team.
“He was in the penalty area for 60 minutes or 58 minutes, where he was grabbed, pulled, pushed and obviously trying to get away from the defender.
“I think the action looks worse than it actually is, I don’t think it’s an elbow.
“I think it’s a full body, but from where the camera is, it looks like an elbow. But we’ll accept it.”
“The only thing that leaves a bitter taste in my mouth is that your coach spoke yesterday at the press conference about the aspect of influencing the referees.
“Then a big central defender falls to the ground so dramatically as Cristiano’s body turns.”
Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson had a chat with Ronaldo on the touchline after he left the pitch.
The pair could be seen shaking hands after speaking a few words.
The Icelander said: “He complimented me for putting pressure on the referee.
“It was his action on the field that cost him the red card. It had nothing to do with me, unless I got into his head.”
Hallgrimsson was asked if he had spoken to Ronaldo after the match ended, but he admitted the conversation had already ended.
Read more about the Scottish sun
JUST CLOSE IN
Moment when Marc Webley’s murderer and accomplice is nailed by police after a gangland attack
LOST SOLE
Staff laid off as Scottish shoe store closes after 25 years
He added: “I think we talked enough when he got out.
“There was nothing to talk about. This was just a moment of a little foolishness on his part, I would say.”
#footage #emerged #Cristiano #Ronaldos #controversial #elbow #strike #Irish #star