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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Jamie Braidwood

Cristiano Ronaldo cleared to play Portugal’s World Cup opener despite Ireland red card

Cristiano Ronaldo has been cleared to start Portugal’s World Cup 2026 campaign after he effectively escaped further punishment following his red card for violent conduct against the Republic of Ireland.

A Fifa disciplinary committee has imposed a three-match ban, but with the final two games suspended, clearing Ronaldo to play a part in Portugal’s opening match of the World Cup next summer provided there is no similar infringement during the one-year probation period.

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