World Cup 2026 (Qualifiers): Ronaldo sent home from the squad ahead of Portugal vs Armenia
Cristiano Ronaldo, suspended after his sending-off against Ireland and sent home from the squad, leaves a Portugal under pressure ahead of a decisive match against Armenia to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Portugal will have to do without Cristiano Ronaldo for their next 2026 World Cup qualifying match. According to the Daily Mail, the Seleção captain was asked to leave the squad after his dismissal against Ireland (0-2) on Thursday.
Ronaldo was shown a red card after an elbow to Dara O’Shea, penalised following a VAR review. As national-team rules provide, a straight red automatically carries a two-match suspension, which could keep the five-time Ballon d’Or winner out of the first game of what looks set to be his final World Cup.
Portugal’s qualification isn’t guaranteed yet. Roberto Martínez’s men must win on Sunday against Armenia to secure their spot at the 2026 World Cup. A draw could condemn them to a play-off if, at the same time, Hungary beat Ireland by more than three goals.
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