Zimpapers Logo

LONDON. — The debate over the justification for Cristiano Ronaldo’s Champions League red card in Juventus’ 2-0 win against Valencia will probably outlast whatever suspension he receives from UEFA. But, what cannot be argued against is that the 33-year-old only has himself to blame for the mess he now finds himself in.

On first inspection, and then with the benefit of replays from all angles, Ronaldo’s dismissal following his clash with Valencia’s Jeison Murillo appeared soft. But it was Ronaldo’s stupidity and petulance in attempting to grab Murillo by the hair which gave German referee Felix Brych the grounds to brandish the first Champions League red card of the player’s career.

It was a show of frustration by Ronaldo and he was punished for it.

He will serve an automatic one-match suspension when Juve host Young Boys in Turin next month, but the tears which followed his dismissal might be down to the prospect of him also missing an emotional return to Manchester United on October 23. — ESPN.