Coach worries football losing essence after historic red card

Paraguay's national coach, Gustavo Alfaro, expressed concern over the strict application of new football regulations following a historic red card incident at the World Cup. Miguel Almiron became the first player to be sent off under a new rule that prohibits covering one's mouth while speaking to an opponent.

The incident occurred just before halftime in Paraguay's match against Turkey. Almiron was shown a red card for the infraction, a decision Alfaro acknowledged was correct according to the rules but expressed reservations about the rule itself. "I fear that we are too strict, and that football loses its essence. In football, there are frictions, fights, and clashes," Alfaro stated, according to AP.

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I fear that we are too strict, and that football loses its essence. In football, there are frictions, fights, and clashes.

The new rule, which FIFA President Gianni Infantino pushed for earlier this year, aims to prevent potential racism or insults. It was approved by the International Football Association Board (Ifab) in April. Almiron reportedly apologized to his teammates for the situation his action created.

Despite playing with ten men for a significant portion of the match, Paraguay managed to secure a 1-0 victory. However, Alfaro's comments highlight a growing debate about whether the enforcement of such rules is stifling the natural interactions and intensity of the game.

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According to the rules, you get sent off if you cover your mouth. Red card. There is nothing we can do about it.