Cristiano Ronaldo Could Play in World Cup Opener

Knowledge Muneri

Cristiano Ronaldo could be lining up in Portugal's opening game of the World Cup as the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) reportedly plans to appeal his red-card ban. The FPF is preparing to file a complaint with FIFA to ensure the ban covers only the Armenia qualifier, according to A Bola.

The Portuguese outlet claims FPF president Pedro Proença has been directly involved in the process to defend Ronaldo, and they have three reasons for their case. Firstly, they will argue that the hostile environment within Aviva Stadium, partly fueled by Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson's actions, contributed to the incident. Hallgrímsson had previously alleged that Ronaldo dominated the referee in their last meeting.

Secondly, the FPF will argue that Ronaldo was provoked by Dara O'Shea's shirt-grabbing before the incident. Finally, they will seek goodwill based on Ronaldo's disciplinary record at the international level, highlighting that this is his first red card in 226 appearances for Portugal.
Dagmedia