Paraguay kept their World Cup hopes alive with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Türkiye, but the celebrations were tempered by a costly red card for veteran forward Miguel Almirón.
The 32-year-old was sent off in first-half stoppage time after an exchange with Türkiye defender Mert Müldür. Match officials deemed the incident to fall under one of the new disciplinary rules introduced for the tournament.
Almirón had covered his mouth while speaking to his opponent, an action that can now result in a red card if deemed confrontational.
Despite being reduced to 10 men, Paraguay held firm throughout the second half to secure a vital three points.
The dismissal means Almirón will miss Paraguay's final Group D match against Australia next week, a game that could determine whether they progress to the knockout stages.
The forward was already walking a disciplinary tightrope after receiving a yellow card in Paraguay's opening defeat to the United States.
His absence is a significant setback for Paraguay as they prepare for one of the most important matches of their campaign.
FIFA introduced the regulation ahead of the World Cup as part of efforts to tackle abusive and discriminatory behaviour on the pitch.
Under the rule, players who cover their mouths while confronting opponents can be shown a red card at the referee's discretion.
According to FIFA, players covering their mouth in a confrontational situation with an opponent may be sanctioned with a red card.
The measure was designed to make it more difficult for players to conceal offensive or racist remarks during matches.
Paraguay's victory over Türkiye leaves them level on points with Australia after both sides lost to the United States and defeated Türkiye.
While the United States are in control of Group D after two wins, the battle to qualify from the group remains wide open.
A draw between Paraguay and Australia could still leave the South Americans in contention for one of the tournament's best third-place spots, but Almirón's suspension adds another challenge to an already tense encounter.
For now, Paraguay can celebrate a crucial victory. But Almirón’s suspension could prove costly in their decisive final group match.
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