In the year 2026 World Cup: Paraguay’s Miguel Almiron is sent off for covering his mouth while talking to an opponent.

Paraguay’s Miguel Almiron became the first player to be shown a red card for covering his mouth while talking to an opponent during their World Cup group game against Turkey in San Francisco.

Almiron, 32, covered his mouth with his hand as he spoke to Turkish national Mert Muldur, who immediately alerted nearby authorities.

Based on the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) check, El Salvador referee Evan Barton announced to the public that he sent off the former Newcastle United winger with a red card.

The incident happened when Paraguay was leading 1-0 before the break.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, former Republic of Ireland striker Clinton Morrison said: “If you know the rules, you shouldn’t do it. You have to credit the referee and VAR for the decision.”

“Not everyone agrees with it, but if they are the rules, you have to follow the rules.”