Portuguese star Rafael Leao receives red card for 'strangling and slapping opponent' in World Cup prep friendly

Portuguese star Rafael Leao was sent off with a direct red card during a World Cup qualifier match against Chile, following an altercation where he allegedly strangled and slapped an opponent. The incident occurred in the 45+2 minute of the first half, just before the break in Lisbon.

Leao, who started alongside Cristiano Ronaldo in the forward line for Portugal, was involved in a physical clash with Chile's defender Ivan Roman. Television footage appeared to show Leao with his hands around Roman's neck and then slapping him. Roman also received a red card for his reaction to the confrontation.

Despite the setback, Portugal went on to win the friendly match 2-1. Goncalo Guedes opened the scoring in the 58th minute, and Bruno Fernandes doubled the lead in the 75th. Chile managed to pull one back in stoppage time through Lucas Cepeda, but it was not enough to change the outcome.

Portugal is preparing for the World Cup 2026 and is scheduled to play their final friendly against Nigeria on June 11 before their tournament debut. The match against Chile was part of their preparation, which also saw another friendly where Germany defeated the USA 2-1, with Kai Havertz scoring twice.