Rafael Leao Sent Off for Punching Ivan Roman
Rafael Leao was shown a red card for punching Ivan Roman in the face during Portugal's friendly against Chile in Oeiras, just before half‑time. The incident occurred in a warm‑up match for the 2026 World Cup.
Leao started the game, a rarity after recent absences from Milan's line‑up due to suspension or being dropped by coach Max Allegri. He had voiced frustration with his role at San Siro and expressed a desire for a new challenge in the Premier League or LaLiga.
The altercation followed an earlier scuffle between Joao Cancelo and Felipe Faundez. When Roman attempted to intervene, Leao dived in, became involved and delivered a punch. Both Leao and Roman received red cards after the melee.
The match served as preparation for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, and the dismissal underscored concerns about Leao's attitude, which Milan reportedly finds unsettling.
A photograph by Carlos Rodrigues captured the clash at Estadio Nacional do Jamor in Lisbon, documenting the moment that turned a routine friendly into a disciplinary incident.