Paraguay’s Almiron suspended for one game after red card for covering mouth

Miguel Almirón, a player for Newcastle United and the Paraguay national team, received a one-game suspension from FIFA on March 18, 2024, following a red card incident during a World Cup qualifier match. The disciplinary action stemmed from Almirón covering his mouth during a confrontation with an opponent, an act deemed unsportsmanlike by the match officials. In a related development, FIFA also revoked the World Cup credentials of journalist Jorge Chipi Vera. Vera had publicly criticized Almirón's red card on air during a broadcast, leading to FIFA's decision to remove his access to World Cup events. The suspension means Almirón will miss Paraguay's next scheduled World Cup qualifier. The incident highlights FIFA's strict stance on player conduct and media interactions during international competitions.