Former Premier League star Miguel Almiron has been sent off at the World Cup for covering his mouth during a game, marking the first such dismissal under new FIFA rules. The regulation, introduced for this summer's tournament in Mexico, Canada, and the United States, allows referees to show a red card if a player covers their mouth in a confrontational situation with an opponent.
Paraguay faced Turkey in a crucial early-morning match on Saturday, needing a win after their opening defeat to the USA. Matias Galarza scored for Paraguay just two minutes into the contest. However, the South Americans were reduced to 10 men just before half-time when Almiron received a straight red card.
Almiron, formerly of Newcastle United, was seen covering his mouth with his hand while speaking to Turkey's Mert Mulder. Mulder immediately alerted the match officials, prompting a VAR review that left the referee with no choice but to send off the Paraguayan star.
The rule is not a blanket ban on covering mouths; players can still do so with teammates, such as during free kicks to hide set-piece strategies. The ban specifically applies in confrontational situations.
Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro declined to comment on the red card decision but admitted he felt 'like everything was conspiring' against his team during the game. Despite the sending off, Paraguay held on for a vital 1-0 victory, keeping their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages alive. They face Australia next Thursday in their final group game, likely a straight shootout for second place behind the USA. Turkey, meanwhile, have been eliminated after losing their opening two matches.
