Ronaldo Cleared to Play in World Cup Opener After Red Card Suspension
Cristiano Ronaldo will be eligible to play for Portugal in their opening match at next summer's World Cup, despite receiving a red card against the Republic of Ireland.
The 40-year-old forward was sent off for elbowing Dara O'Shea during Portugal's 2-0 qualifying defeat earlier this month.
Typically, violent conduct results in a three-match suspension; however, Ronaldo's second and third matches have been suspended for one year.
According to BBC Sport, the decision took into account that this was Ronaldo's first red card in 226 international appearances.
Ronaldo missed the match against Armenia on November 16, meaning he will not miss any games during the World Cup in the United States next summer.
A statement from FIFA noted, "If Cristiano Ronaldo commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension set out in the disciplinary decision shall be deemed automatically revoked and the remaining two matches must be served immediately."
During the qualifying rounds, Ronaldo scored five goals, helping Portugal secure the top spot in Group F and earn their seventh consecutive World Cup appearance.
The draw for the tournament groups will be broadcast live on the BBC on Friday, December 5.
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