Paraguay winger Miguel Almiron was shown a straight red card during his side’s crucial 2026 World Cup group stage match against Turkiye on Saturday for covering his mouth while speaking to an opponent, marking the first high-profile application of FIFA’s controversial new rule.
The incident occurred when Almiron directed comments toward Türkiye defender Mert Müldür and instinctively raised his hand to his mouth. Referee enforcement of the recently introduced regulation designed to crack down on hidden verbal abuse and insults was immediate, resulting in Almirón’s dismissal.
FIFA brought in the rule ahead of the tournament following several incidents of players using their hands, arms, or shirts to conceal abusive language, most notably in the wake of a high-profile Champions League clash involving Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior. It was when Gianluca Prestianni of Benfica covered his face during the Champions League clash. The player was suspended for the second leg vs Real Madrid.
Paraguayan player sent off as FIFA's new 'Mouth-Cover' rule claims first victim at 2026 World Cup
Almirón appeared visibly emotional and distraught as he walked off the pitch, leaving Paraguay with ten men in what is a vital match for their progression from the group stage. The Newcastle United attacker has been a key player for the national team in recent years.
Paraguay will now have to navigate the remainder of the match and their remaining group fixtures a man down, with the new rule already sparking debate among fans and pundits about its impact on the flow and fairness of the game.
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