It was an eventful end to an unexpected yet intriguing spat between Ronaldo and Hallgrimsson.
Ronaldo previously had good memories of Dublin. Sixteen years ago, he played his first game for Real Madrid – a pre-season friendly against Shamrock Rovers – at Aviva Stadium.
In his eve-of-match news conference, Ronaldo said it was “lovely” to be back.
However, he also accused the Republic of Ireland boss of mind games after the Icelander urged the referee not to be influenced by the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Hallgrimsson had said that, in Portugal’s win over the Republic of Ireland in October, Ronaldo – who had a penalty saved in that game – was “controlling the referee”.
“He complimented me for putting pressure on the referee,” said Hallgrimsson when asked about their touchline exchange, which ended with a handshake.
“It was his action on the pitch that cost him the red card. It had nothing to do with me – unless I got into his head.”
Asked if he spoke to Ronaldo after the game, Hallgrimsson added: “No, I think we spoke enough when he came off.
“There was nothing to speak about. This was just a moment of a little silliness from him, I would say.”
