Wayne Rooney recalls red card 20 years on: 'I'd have done the same to get him sent off'

Wayne Rooney, the former England international, has spoken about his infamous red card during the 2006 World Cup quarter-final against Portugal, revisiting the incident two decades later. Rooney admitted that his actions leading to the dismissal were impulsive, but he understands why Cristiano Ronaldo, his Manchester United teammate at the time, urged the referee to send him off.

"I'd have done the same to get him sent off," Rooney remarked, acknowledging Ronaldo's role in the episode. The moment remains one of the most memorable in both players' careers, as Ronaldo's reaction was seen by many as a turning point. Rooney's red card weakened England, and Portugal eventually won on penalties, eliminating England from the tournament.

The 20th anniversary of this event has prompted Rooney to revisit his career's pivotal moments. He noted that emotions on the pitch often get the better of players, but looking back, it serves as a learning experience. Ronaldo's actions, once perceived as betrayal, continue to spark debate among football fans worldwide.