Paraguay midfielder Miguel Almiron could miss the remainder of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after becoming the first player sent off under football’s new mouth-covering rule.
The former Newcastle United star received a straight red card during Paraguay’s 1-0 victory over Turkey after VAR reviewed an incident in which he spoke to Turkish defender Mert Müldür while covering his mouth. The dismissal came under a FIFA rule introduced ahead of the tournament that prohibits players from obscuring their mouths during confrontations on the pitch.
The regulation was adopted following concerns that players could use the gesture to conceal discriminatory or abusive language from cameras and match officials. FIFA and the International Football Association Board approved the measure earlier this year to increase transparency in on-field interactions.
Almiron’s suspension means he will miss Paraguay’s decisive Group D clash against Australia, a match that could determine qualification for the knockout stage. While Paraguay managed to hold on for victory against Turkey despite playing an entire half with 10 men, the loss of one of their key players is a significant blow to their World Cup hopes.
The incident has sparked debate across the football world, with supporters of the rule arguing that players were given clear warning before the tournament, while critics have questioned whether the punishment is too severe.
