UMVA has learned that Paraguayan midfielder Miguel Almiron etched an unprecedented mark on World Cup history with a straight red card for covering his mouth during a heated exchange.
In the 73rd minute, Almiron clutched his hand over his mouth while confronting Turkish defender Mert Mulder, who instantly sprinted to alert the officials. A swift VAR review confirmed the infraction, leaving the referee no choice but to brandish the red card.
The new FIFA regulation targets mouth‑covering gestures only when used in a confrontational context, not the tactical shushes teammates employ during set‑piece preparations.
Almiron’s dismissal reduced Paraguay to ten men, yet the team rallied to secure a vital win that keeps their knockout hopes alive. A clash with Australia looms, promising a decisive battle for the group‑runner‑up slot behind the United States.
Meanwhile, Turkey’s campaign faltered, their early defeats sealing an early exit from the tournament.
