Cristiano Ronaldo sees RED: Portugal star is sent off for ELBOWING Ireland opponent before giving sarcastic response to decision - and he could miss country's World Cup opener

Cristiano Ronaldo could miss the first game of the World Cup after being handed his first ever international red card against Ireland on Thursday.

The Portugal veteran was given his marching orders for a frustrated elbow on Dara O'Shea on the hour mark of his side's shocking 2-0 defeat in Dublin.

Ronaldo had cut a frustrated figure after a dismal first-half performance from Portugal, who found themselves two down after a brace from Troy Parrott. 

And shortly after half-time, the 40-year-old let his frustrations well and truly get the better of him. 

Following a wayward cross from Diogo Dalot, Ronaldo flung an arm at Ipswich Town centre-back O'Shea, who went to ground clutching his face, in what was initially deemed an offence worthy of a yellow card. 

But after a VAR review - and a 'crying' gesture from Ronaldo towards the Irish defender -  the referee eventually upgraded his caution to a red card.

It was a decision met with disbelief by Ronaldo, who sarcastically applauded the raucous Aviva Stadium crowd before trudging towards the tunnel. 

This is a breaking news story, more to follow.