Netherlands vs Portugal – A game with 4 red cards and 16 yellow cards

In World Cup matches, physicality often escalates when top teams face off. During the 2006 World Cup Round of 16, it reached unprecedented levels. Surprisingly, it was Portugal and the Netherlands clashing—teams not usually known for aggression. From the start, Russian referee Valentin Ivanov struggled to control the game. He handed out a record of four red cards and 16 yellow cards, both FIFA records.

The Netherlands entered the match as favorites after winning all their group-stage games. Portugal, on the other hand, secured second place after a draw with Mexico and a loss to Iran.

Chaos erupted when Marco Van Basten got booked in the 2nd minute. Luis Figo headbutted an opponent but only received a yellow card, despite FIFA rules demanding a red. Portugal won the match 1-0. The Netherlands and Portugal’s aggressive behavior, marked by red and yellow cards, made this World Cup match infamous.

After the game, Luiz Felipe Scolari defended Figo, saying, “Jesus Christ may turn the other cheek, but Luís Figo isn’t Jesus Christ!” FIFA President Sepp Blatter criticized Ivanov, saying the referee “should have given himself a yellow card.”

The intense and thrilling match between the Netherlands and Portugal remains a memorable moment. Their historic encounter, with its record red and yellow cards, showcases the intense competition and drama of World Cup history.