Paraguay’s Almiron becomes first player to be sent off for covering mouth during clash with another star

Miguel Almiron became the first player to be shown a red card for covering his mouth while speaking to an opponent during Paraguay’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Group D match against Türkiye.

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He was sent off in the third minute of added time in the first half. Almirón and Türkiye right-back Mert Müldür exchanged words after a foul near midfield. The Paraguayan midfielder covered his mouth while saying something to Mulder, who immedi ately appealed to Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton for punishment.

Barton went to video review and quickly ruled that Almirón would be given a red card.

The Atlanta United midfielder was dismissed following a new law passed by the International Football Association Board, which states that “any player covering their mouth in a confrontational situation with an opponent may be sanctioned with a red card.”

The rule was brought in to stop racist comments from being hidden from view, after a controversial incident involving Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni and Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League.

Per the new law, players may cover their mouths during conversations deemed friendly. However, if the exchange shows any sign of confrontation, the offense will result in an automatic red card.