World Cup 2026: Paraguay’s Miguel Almiron sent off for covering mouth while speaking to opponent

Paraguay’s Miguel Almiron became the first player to receive a red card for covering his mouth while talking to his opponent in the World Cup group match against Türkiye in San Francisco.

Almiron, 32, covered his mouth with his hand while talking to Mert Müldür from Türkiye, and Mert Müldür immediately informed the official standing next to him.

Following a check from the video assistant referee (VAR), Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton announced to the crowd that he would send off the former Newcastle United winger.

The incident occurred during halftime when Paraguay was leading 1-0.

Commenting on BBC Radio 5 Live, former Republic of Ireland striker Clinton Morrison said: “If you know the rules you shouldn’t be doing this. You have to give credit to the referee and VAR for making that decision.”

“Not everyone may agree with it, but if that’s the rules, you have to follow the rules.”