Almirón Makes Unwanted History After Rare Red Card for Mouth Covering in World Cup
Paraguay midfielder Miguel Almirón was sent off during his country’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Group D clash against Türkiye after a rare disciplinary decision involving how he communicated with an opponent on the pitch.
The incident occurred in first-half stoppage time following a foul near midfield that sparked a heated exchange between Almirón and Türkiye defender Mert Müldür.
During the confrontation, Almirón covered his mouth while speaking, prompting Müldür to immediately alert the referee.
Salvadoran official Iván Barton referred the incident to VAR review, which resulted in a straight red card for the Paraguayan midfielder.
The dismissal marks the first high-profile enforcement of a new International Football Association Board rule that allows officials to sanction players who cover their mouths during confrontational exchanges, particularly when the content of the discussion cannot be clearly monitored.
The regulation was introduced amid growing concerns over hidden abusive or discriminatory remarks during on-field disputes, following previous controversies in international club competition.
Under the rule, covering the mouth is still permitted during friendly or non-confrontational conversations, but becomes punishable when used in tense or aggressive situations between players.
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