Portugal’s Martinez Blames Opponents After Ronaldo’s Red Card

Portugal’s national football manager, Roberto Martinez, expressed his discontent with the circumstances surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo‘s red card during a match against Ireland on October 12, 2023. The incident occurred after a video assistant referee (VAR) review, leading to Ronaldo’s dismissal for lashing out at Irish defender Dara O’Shea. This marked the third red card issued to an opposing player during World Cup qualifiers held at the Aviva Stadium, following similar incidents involving teams from Hungary and Armenia.

In the aftermath of the match, which ended with Portugal struggling at 2-0 down thanks to a brace from Troy Parrott, Martinez pointed fingers at both Hallgrímsson and O’Shea. He highlighted comments made by Hallgrímsson in his pre-match press conference, where the Ireland manager accused Ronaldo of “controlling the referee” during their previous encounter in Lisbon.

Martinez defended his captain, stating, “The red card is from a captain who has never been sent off in 226 games; I think it was a bit harsh.” He elaborated that Ronaldo’s actions stemmed from frustration after enduring persistent physical contact in the box, arguing, “I think the action looks worse than it is; it was a turn of Ronaldo’s full body, rather than an elbow.”

The Portuguese manager further criticized O’Shea’s performance, suggesting that the defender’s dramatic fall influenced the referee’s decision. “What is disappointing is your coach was talking in the press conference about the aspect of the referee being influenced, then a big centre-back falls on the floor, dramatically,” Martinez remarked.

Portugal’s hopes for a comeback were significantly diminished following Ronaldo’s red card. At that point in the match, Ireland had already established a two-goal lead. Hallgrímsson’s earlier comments suggested that Ronaldo’s influence extended beyond the pitch, stating that the player “was not only controlling the referee, he was controlling the whole stadium.”

In response to Hallgrímsson’s remarks, Ronaldo expressed skepticism about the Ireland manager’s intentions, stating, “I think he tried to put pressure on the referee because, for sure, he’s a smart guy; he knows where they can push.” He noted his extensive experience in the game and how coaches often attempt to sway officiating decisions.

Martinez also acknowledged the challenges posed by Ireland’s well-organized defense. “You have to credit Ireland. We knew what they were going to do. A well-organized team that would defend in a low block and not take any risks,” he said. He added that the absence of key players and a slow start contributed to his team’s difficulties.

“We wouldn’t do what we wanted on the ball and opened up their counter-attacks; simple long balls we couldn’t deal with,” he explained. Portugal conceded a goal from a corner, which Martinez noted was expected based on Ireland’s style of play. He reflected on the critical moments of the match, stating, “The key moments went in their favour; they scored before we took control and were looking like scoring, and they got the second in the 44th minute. They get the energy from the crowd. Hopeful football hurt us too much.”

The match highlighted the intense rivalry between the two teams and the ever-present pressure that comes with international competition. As Portugal looks ahead to future matches, the fallout from this encounter is likely to influence both their strategy and the dynamics of the team.