Miguel Almirón was shown a red card after an altercation in Paraguay's Group D match vs. Türkiye, according to ESPN.
Summary
Miguel Almirón has become the first player to be sent off for covering his mouth during a match, according to ESPN. The incident occurred during Paraguay's Group D encounter with Türkiye.
The Details
ESPN reports that the Newcastle United winger was dismissed following an altercation in the Group D fixture. The exact nature of the incident has not been detailed, but the red card was shown for covering his mouth, a new disciplinary measure introduced by FIFA to clamp down on dissent and offensive language.
The match, part of the ongoing World Cup, saw Paraguay take on Türkiye in a crucial group stage encounter. Almirón's dismissal left his side a man down for the remainder of the game.
What It Means
This sending-off marks the first application of FIFA's new rule targeting players who cover their mouths to hide what they are saying from cameras and officials. The rule aims to improve transparency and reduce abusive language on the pitch. Almirón will now face a suspension, the length of which is yet to be confirmed. Paraguay's hopes of advancing in the tournament may be impacted by the loss of one of their key players.
For more updates, check out our more World Cup news page.
Source: Reported by ESPN. Summary compiled by NinetyMins.
