He Got World Cup's First Red Card, for Covering His Mouth

Miguel Almiron just nabbed a dubious honor in this year's World Cup. The Paraguayan midfielder became the first player sent off under a new rule targeting players who cover their mouths while arguing, dismissed in first-half stoppage time of Friday's Group D match against Turkey, reports the AP. After a foul near midfield, Almiron shielded his mouth (video here) while exchanging words with defender Mert Muldur, who immediately appealed to referee Ivan Barton. A video review followed, after which the Salvadoran official pulled out the red card.

The decision rested on a recent International Football Association Board rule, per ESPN: If a player covers their mouth during a confrontational exchange, they can be ejected, a measure introduced to help expose potential racist abuse after a high-profile Champions League incident during the 2025-26 season. Covering one's mouth during friendly, nonheated conversations is exempt.

Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro dodged direct comment on the red card, but he noted that it sometimes felt "everything was conspiring" against his team. Despite playing with just 10 men and recording the nation's third World Cup red card in FIFA history, Paraguay held on for a 1-0 win thanks to an early strike from Matias Galarza, knocking Turkey out of the tournament.