MADRID (AFP) - Three-time World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo has apologised to Cordoba defender Edimar for the kick that saw the Portuguese sent-off for the ninth time in his career in Real Madrid's 2-1 win on Saturday.

"I apologise to everyone and especially to Edimar for my rash act in the game today," Ronaldo wrote on his official Twitter account.

Ronaldo cut a frustrated figure throughout arguably Madrid's worst performance of the season as relegation threatened Cordoba enjoyed the better of the chances.

That frustration bubbled over seven minutes from time when he kicked out at Edimar with the scores level at 1-1.

He was bailed out by his teammates as Gareth Bale's free-kick was handled inside the area by Fede Cartabia two minutes from time and, in Ronaldo's absence, the Welshman took responsibility from the spot to send Madrid four points clear at the top of La Liga.

However, Ronaldo could now miss up to three La Liga games against Real Sociedad, Sevilla and champions Atletico Madrid in the coming weeks.

"They are things that happen on the pitch, but we still don't know what is going to happen," said Bale on the possible length of Ronaldo's suspension.

"We have a big squad and the team has played games without him before and done well."

Real boss Carlo Ancelotti also refused to comment on the incident until he had seen it back on television.

"I haven't seen it yet and I still haven't spoken with him, so I can't judge," said the Italian.