Paraguay midfielder Miguel Almiron received the first red card of the World Cup for covering his mouth during a confrontation with a Turkish player late in the first half. The incident occurred during additional time in a Group D match. Almiron and Turkey’s Mert Mulder were involved in an exchange near midfield. Almiron covered his mouth while speaking to Mulder, who then appealed to referee Ivan Barton.
After a video review, Barton decided to issue a red card to Almiron, enforcing a new World Cup rule. “According to the law, if you cover your mouth you’re sent off. Red card,” explained Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro. He added that there was little they could do about the ruling. Despite the setback, Paraguay maintained their 1-0 lead and won the match.
Alfaro expressed efforts to uplift Almiron’s spirits post-game, sharing that his absence was a source of motivation for the team. “He apologized to his teammates for his mistake,” noted Alfaro. Almiron was aware of the situation his actions had caused.
The rule change followed Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni’s attempt to disguise verbal insults in a Champions League encounter. FIFA president Gianni Infantino advocated for the rule. “I fear we are too strict and football loses its essence,” stated Alfaro, commenting on the potential over-regulation of the sport.
As a result of the red card, Almiron will miss Paraguay’s final Group D match against Australia, which is critical for securing a second-place spot. FIFA might extend his suspension into the knockout rounds. Alfaro expressed hope that Almiron’s penalty would be minimal. “He was very sorry and he was heavily affected,” said Alfaro.
This is Almiron’s second card under the new rule. In a prior match against the United States, video review overturned a yellow card issued to Tim Ream, awarding it to Almiron for diving.
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