Miguel Almiron of Paraguay was shown a straight red card for covering his mouth while speaking to an opponent during the South American country’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match against Türkiye on Saturday.
Following amendments at the special meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) which took place in April, the World Football Governing Body said, a red card will be shown to any player caught “covering their mouth during confrontation with an opponent”.
The amendments were launched to be applied at the FIFA World Cup 2026, FIFA said via an official statement.
While speaking to Mert Muldur of Turkey, 32-year old Almiron covered his mouth with his hand, and instantly Muldur reported the situation to an official standing close to him.
Almiron has now become the first player to be shown a red card for covering his mouth.
Paraguay went ahead and emerged victorious over Turkey by a lone goal despite losing Almiron in the 3rd minute of the first half additional time; the showdown which took place at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, Santa Clara, California, had The White and Red take the lead very early, in the 2nd minute of play through M. Galarza.
After a check by Video Assistant Referee (VAR), referee Ivan Barton from El Salvador made the announcement to the crowd that, he was sending off Almiron, former Newcastle United player.
Fielding in the second half with just ten (10) men against The Crescent-Stars, Paraguay held on and carted maximum points.
FIFA’s official Statement following Almiron’s red card reads: “Following a VAR review in the FIFA World Cup match between Türkiye and Paraguay, Miguel Almirón was shown red card for covering his mouth.
“Following a special meeting of The IFAB held in April, a number of amendments were introduced to be implemented at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
“This included a red card for any player in the tournament seen covering their mouth in a confrontational situation with an opponent.”
If Paraguay defeats Australia in the last Group D match, they will qualify for the round of 32 of the tournament.
The Paraguayans are second in Group D with three (3) points, trailing the United States of America (USA), who have amassed six (6) points, while Turkey are 4th and have lost two (2) out of two (2).
Photo: Paraguay’s Miguel Almiron covering his mouth during a confrontation with Turkiye’s Mert Muldur during their second FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match on Saturday in California, United States (US) | Getty Images
