The Portuguese Football Federation is preparing an appeal after Cristiano Ronaldo received a red card in the qualifier against the Republic of Ireland. The referee reviewed the moment on video and ruled that Ronaldo struck Dara O’Shea during a crowded exchange near the goal. That call caused immediate debate across Portugal because Ronaldo has represented the national team for more than twenty years without a single dismissal.
Reactions in Portugal grew quickly after the match. Supporters who examined the images said that the challenge seemed minor and did not justify such a severe call. Others pointed to his long presence in the squad and noted that he rarely loses control during tense moments. Roberto Martínez added that the replay did not support such a harsh outcome and said that Ronaldo’s long record with the national team should carry weight in any decision that follows.
The uncertainty around Ronaldo has already reached the betting sector. Markets shifted shortly after the incident because operators reassessed Portugal’s early fixtures. The most reliable credit card betting sites process deposits very quickly and provide sizable offers for new customers. These platforms include odds on more than twenty sports and they allow simple and direct wagers on football, basketball, baseball and other competitions. Portugal’s matches now feature revised lines and scoring markets due to the unclear outcome of the appeal. (Source: https://www.cardplayer.com/betting/credit-card-betting-sites)
The FPF will attempt to reduce the suspension through a written appeal. The federation intends to argue that the match had a tense tone from the opening minutes and that Ronaldo dealt with repeated holds from O’Shea before the clash. They will also reference his clean international record and the absence of any previous incidents of this type. Their goal is a one-match ban, which he has already served in the final World Cup qualifier against Armenia, so that he is available from the start of next summer’s World Cup.
Inside the national team group there is a sense that this moment may force a short period of adjustment. Several players are prepared to take on more responsibility if Ronaldo misses time. Gonçalo Ramos would appear to be the chief beneficiary if the appeal does not bring the result the FPF hopes for. Ramos has filled in for Ronaldo as Portugal’s main striker in the past, famously scoring a hat-trick against Switzerland when Fernando Santos dropped the captain in the Qatar World Cup. Martínez and the FPF staff have kept the squad focused on preparation rather than speculation.
The Portuguese press has started to discuss where this situation fits within a wider picture. Some writers believe that the incident will be remembered only as a refereeing controversy. Others see an opportunity for younger players to assert their influence. What remains certain is that the decision from FIFA will shape Portugal’s plans in the coming weeks.
As the appeal moves forward, the FPF hopes for a prompt verdict so that Roberto Martínez can prepare the squad with a clear understanding of who will be available. Until that point arrives, the situation remains one of the main topics across Portuguese football.
