"The exact words spoken during the exchange have not been reported."
World Cup Shock: Red Card for Covering the Mouth Under New IFAB Rule
In a World Cup Group D match against Turkey, Paraguay's Miguel Almiron received the first red card under a new International Football Association Board (IFAB) rule that penalizes players for covering their mouths during on-field confrontations. The rule was introduced in April following an incident involving Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior and Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni.
The Incident
The event occurred during first-half added time after a foul on Paraguay's Isidro Pitta. Almiron covered his mouth with his hand while speaking to Turkey's Mert Müldür. Müldür subsequently reported the incident to the assistant referee. Following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, referee Iván Barton issued a red card to Almiron. The exact words spoken during the exchange have not been reported.
Match Outcome and Implications
Despite being reduced to 10 men, Paraguay won the match 1-0. The victory eliminated Turkey from the tournament and kept Paraguay's qualification hopes alive. Almiron will miss Paraguay's final group match against Australia on June 22. FIFA's disciplinary committee may extend the suspension.
"The team's fighting spirit was brought out by the incident." — Paraguay Coach Gustavo Alfaro
Paraguay's position in Group D is precarious. After a 4-1 loss to the USA, their goal difference stands at -2. To secure second place in the group, Paraguay must win against Australia. A loss could still result in advancement as one of the best third-placed teams, though the poor goal difference complicates that path.
Reactions
Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro stated that he accepted the application of the rules but expressed concern that new regulations could harm the essence of football. He reported that he told Almiron not to feel guilty and that the incident brought out fighting spirit in the team.
Newcastle United teammate Dan Burn commented that the gesture may be a habit for Almiron and that players may need time to adjust to the new rule.
Almiron posted on Instagram thanking his teammates for their effort, without mentioning his dismissal.
Related Incident: Commentator Banned
FIFA stripped Paraguayan commentator Jorge Chipi Vera of his World Cup accreditation after he called referees "thieves" during a broadcast. Vera later apologized, but FIFA deemed the action unacceptable.
Team Statements
Paraguay defender Omar Alderete stated the team has moved on and is focused on the match against Australia. Defender Junior Alonso criticized the refereeing, particularly the application of the new time-limit rule for restarts. Alfaro also criticized FIFA's hydration breaks as commercial interruptions and complained about high ticket and transport prices.