Following a collision in first-half injury time during the match at Santa Clara, California on 19/6, players from both teams rushed to argue, creating a chaotic scene. After both captains intervened to separate the players, referee Ivan Barton received a request to check VAR for a potential red card.
Consequently, Almiron was observed covering his mouth while speaking to Mert Muldur. Although the content of the exchange was unclear, referee Barton directly showed the red card to the Paraguayan forward.
In April, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) approved a regulation to disqualify players who cover their mouths when arguing with opponents on the field. Almiron made unwanted history, becoming the first player penalized under this rule.
 |
Almiron covers his mouth while speaking to Muldur during the World Cup 2026 group D match between Paraguay and Turkey in Santa Clara, California, near San Francisco, United States on 19/6. Photo: screenshot
Covering one's mouth while speaking has long been a common sight on the football pitch, initially intended to prevent opponents or cameras from deciphering tactics. However, over time, this action became distorted, serving as a shield for insults, offensive remarks, or racist comments without leaving visible evidence.
In February, during the Champions League play-off first leg between Benfica and Real, Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth while speaking, before Vinicius accused him of racist behavior. The Argentinian player was not penalized on the field but was later investigated. After confirming homophobic behavior towards Vinicius, UEFA banned Prestianni for six matches. This incident also prompted IFAB and FIFA to approve the new regulation, also known as the "Vinicius rule".
Despite its deterrent nature, this regulation has not received absolute consensus. Federations argue that covering one's mouth does not always carry negative connotations, and applying a red card could lead to controversial penalties if contextual evaluation is lacking.
 |
Almiron was stunned after receiving a red card during the World Cup 2026 group D match between Paraguay and Turkey on 19/6. Photo: AP
Almiron's disqualification at the end of the first half was a significant disadvantage for Paraguay. At that time, with Matias Galarza's opening goal in the 2nd minute, the South American representative led Turkey one-zero. However, Paraguay's remaining 10 players showed resilience, preserving the score to secure their first three points, while also eliminating Turkey from this year's tournament.
In their opening match, Paraguay lost to host United States one-four, while Turkey suffered a zero-two defeat against Australia. In this group, the United States secured advancement after two consecutive victories.
Almiron played 223 matches, scoring 30 goals for Newcastle (England) from 2019 to 2025. Since early 2025, the 32-year-old winger returned to Atlanta United (United States). For the national team, he has played 77 matches and scored 10 goals. However, this is his first World Cup appearance.
Thanh Quy (according to ESPN)
