Paraguay's Almiron sees first World Cup red card for mouth cover

Miguel Almiron became the first player sent off under FIFA's new mouth-covering rule at the 2026 World Cup during Paraguay's 1-0 win over Turkey in Santa Clara, California, on Friday. The Paraguay midfielder was shown a red card in first-half stoppage time after a confrontation with Turkey's Mert Mulder near midfield. Referee Ivan Barton reviewed the incident and dismissed Almiron after he covered his mouth while speaking. Paraguay held on with 10 men and the result secured first place in Group D for the United States. Almiron is now suspended for Paraguay's next match against Australia, a game that could determine whether Paraguay advances.