Paraguay Files FIFA Complaint After Bellingham Avoids Red Card for Covering Mouth During Conversation with Opponent

Paraguay has filed an official complaint with FIFA after Jude Bellingham avoided a red card for covering his mouth while speaking to an opponent.

Paraguayan star Miguel Almiron became the first player ever to be sent off for that offence during his nation’s narrow victory over Turkey at the World Cup.

Before the tournament, FIFA confirmed that the act is now a straight‑red‑card offence.

The rule followed the case of Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni, who received a six‑match ban for homophobic abuse directed at Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr while covering his mouth.

However, during England’s goalless Group L draw with Ghana, Bellingham was seen covering his mouth while exchanging words with Ghana forward Jordan Ayew.

The England star avoided punishment and remained on the pitch for 73 minutes, which angered Paraguay.

Also Read: World Cup 2026: Why Bellingham Has Been Underappreciated In England –Parker

Express and Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo report that the Paraguayan Football Association has submitted a formal protest to FIFA, arguing that the rule has not been enforced consistently and equally across all competing nations. The rules stipulate that any player covering their mouth while confronting an opponent should receive an immediate red card.

It appears Bellingham was allowed to continue playing because his actions were not considered confrontational.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino recently addressed Almiron’s red card, reaffirming his full support for the rule.

He said: “This thing about covering the mouth is for us a very, very important rule. It’s about respect. It’s about the example that we should give. If you have nothing to hide, you don’t cover your mouth when you speak to somebody. The rules have been made very clear to everyone.”

When Almiron was dismissed, FIFA clarified the ruling in an official statement which read: “Following a VAR review in the FIFA World Cup match between Turkiye and Paraguay, Miguel Almiron was shown a red card for covering his mouth.”

“Following a special meeting of The IFAB held in April, a number of amendments were introduced to be implemented at the FIFA World Cup 2026. This included a red card for any player in the tournament seen covering their mouth in a confrontational situation with an opponent.”

Almiron faces suspension for Paraguay’s final group‑stage match against Australia. If Paraguay fails to secure a point, the South American nation could exit the tournament early, making Almiron’s red card his last contribution.