Why was Miguel Almiron sent off against Turkey in FIFA World Cup 2026?
Almiron covered his mouth while confronting the Turkish player.
Miguel Almirón made 2026 FIFA World Cup history against Turkey, but not in the way he desired. He was shown a red card for something which was introduced by FIFA in the competition.
The Paraguay midfielder was sent off late in the first half against Turkey, becoming the first player in World Cup history to be red-carded for covering his mouth. The dismissal threatened Paraguay’s 1-0 advantage, forcing them to play the whole second half with 10 men.
Miguel Almirón quickly covered his mouth while speaking to Turkey’s Mert Müldür, who instantly pointed out to the referee, Ivan Barton, for the punishment of the Paraguay midfielder.
Also read: Who is Matias Galarza? Fastest goalscorer of FIFA World Cup 2026
Miguel Almiron shown a red card for covering his mouth
The referee walked to the monitor. After a quick review, he issued Miguel Almiron a red card. This is the first World Cup to include red cards for players who cover their mouths during confrontations with opponents.
However, this isn’t the first time a player has been shown a red card similarly; we have already witnessed this in a Champions League game.
The regulation was provoked by a February Champions League encounter in which Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni covered his lips with his shirt while hurling racist remarks at Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior. It made it difficult for referees to verify what he said.
The rule states that a player who covers their lips with their hand, arm, or shirt during a conflict shall earn a red card. Players who cover their lips during amicable talks with opposing teammates will not face punishment.
FIFA replied by giving referees the ability to show a red card to any player who covers his lips during a disagreement.
Why was Miguel Almiron sent off?
Miguel Almiron covered his mouth while confronting a Turkey player.
How many games’ ban will Miguel Almiron receive?
A minimum of one game.
For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.
After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.