The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) is moving swiftly to appeal Cristiano Ronaldo's three-match suspension, hoping to reduce the ban to a single game. The suspension stems from a straight red card Ronaldo received during Portugal's 2-0 defeat against the Republic of Ireland in a World Cup qualifier. The incident occurred when Ronaldo was deemed to have elbowed Irish defender Dara O'Shea.

A three-match ban could have significant implications, potentially sidelining the 40-year-old striker for Portugal's opening fixtures at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, assuming Portugal qualifies. If Portugal had to go through the play-offs, the suspension would be carried into those decisive matches. Portugal did secure direct qualification to the World Cup after defeating Armenia 9-1. Ronaldo was absent for the match against Armenia due to the suspension.

The FPF is reportedly building its appeal to FIFA on three main arguments. First, they contend that a hostile atmosphere was created at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, fueled by comments made by Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson prior to the match. Hallgrímsson had suggested Ronaldo "controlled the referee" during Portugal's previous 1-0 victory against Ireland, which the FPF believes incited the crowd and influenced the refereeing.

Secondly, the FPF will argue that Ronaldo was being blatantly held inside the penalty box multiple times leading up to the incident and that his reaction was a result of frustration. They will highlight the physical grappling between O'Shea and Ronaldo.

Finally, the FPF plans to emphasize Ronaldo's exemplary disciplinary record at the international level. The fact that the star has over 225 caps without a single red card speaks volumes to his character and shows that the incident was out of character. The FPF is convinced that these mitigating factors should convince FIFA to reduce Ronaldo's suspension to one match.

FPF president Pedro Proença is directly involved in preparing the appeal, highlighting the importance the federation places on the case. "We will do everything in our power to ensure the penalty imposed on Ronaldo is as light as possible," Proença stated. Bruno Fernandes, Ronaldo's teammate, acknowledged Ronaldo's mistake, calling it a costly one. Portugal's manager, Roberto Martínez, defended Ronaldo, stating that the red card was a reaction to provocation and that a lengthy suspension would be unfair.

Ronaldo himself has expressed support for his Portugal teammates. "Go team! All together today and forever! For Portugal and for our flag!" he posted on Instagram. With the appeal process underway, the FPF and Ronaldo will be hoping for a favorable outcome that allows him to participate in what he has confirmed will be his final World Cup.