Cristiano Ronaldo to Miss Match Against Armenia, Portugal Fall to Ireland

The Portugal national team suffered a surprising 0–2 defeat to Ireland in the 5th round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on November 13. Cristiano Ronaldo received a straight red card and will definitely miss the decisive qualifier against Armenia on November 16.

The incident took place in the 61st minute, when Portugal was already trailing 0–2. Ronaldo elbowed defender Dara O’Shea in the back and was immediately sent off. The Portuguese captain may face a serious suspension — likely for several matches — which could also affect the opening games of the 2026 World Cup, should Portugal qualify directly.

It’s worth noting that Armenia’s captain Tigran Barseghyan also received a three-match suspension after being sent off against Ireland for head-butting midfielder Finn Azaz. As a result, both captains — Barseghyan and Ronaldo — will miss the Armenia vs. Portugal clash.

The defeat to Ireland complicated Roberto Martínez’s plans. Portugal could have secured direct qualification to the 2026 World Cup today, but two first-half goals from Troy Parrott changed the situation in the group. Now Ireland still have a chance for the playoffs, and the fight for first place has tightened.

An unexpected twist is possible in the final round: if Portugal lose to Armenia and Hungary beat Ireland, it will be the Hungarian team that wins the group.

As for Armenia, the team has already lost its qualification chances after today’s 0–1 defeat to Hungary. Nevertheless, the match against Portugal remains important and could influence the fate of the entire group.

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