Miguel Almiron, the Paraguayan midfielder, was controversially sent off during a World Cup group stage match against Turkey, becoming the first player to receive a red card under a newly implemented FIFA rule. The incident occurred in first-half stoppage time when Almiron covered his mouth while confronting Turkish defender Mert Mulder. The referee, Ivan Barton, reviewed the footage via VAR before issuing the red card.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) passed the new law in April, stipulating that "any player covering their mouth in a confrontational situation with an opponent may be sanctioned with a red card." This regulation was reportedly championed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino following an incident where Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni allegedly verbally abused Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior while covering his mouth in a Champions League game. The rule aims to curb discriminatory and inappropriate behavior on the pitch.
Despite playing with ten men for the entire second half, Paraguay secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Turkey. The red card means Almiron will be suspended for Paraguay's final group stage match against Australia, a critical fixture with second place in Group D on the line. This absence is expected to significantly impact Paraguay's chances of advancing to the knockout stages.
Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro confirmed Almiron had apologized to his teammates for the infraction, stating, "He knew about the situation he had left his teammates in with his actions. It happened and it happened." Pundits have weighed in on the decision, with some suggesting that covering one's mouth in such a situation inherently implies an intent to say something derogatory. This marks Almiron's second carding under a new rule this tournament, having previously received a yellow for diving against the United States.
