World Cup 2026: 'Prestianni Rule' enforced for first time; Straight red card to Mikel Almiron
First implementation of 'Prestianni Rule' in Paraguay-Turkey World Cup match; Mikel Almiron red card after VAR review for tight lipped. Paraguay kept the winning streak and eliminated Turkey.
The 'Prestianni Rule' was implemented for the first time in history in the Paraguay-Turkey clash on the second day of FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D. Paraguay took the lead 64 seconds into the first half thanks to a quick goal by Mathias Galarza.
Clashes escalated on the field during a period of heightened tension before half-time. The referee was called to the VAR screen following a bad tackle. Video analysis clearly shows Paraguayan player Miguel Almiron covering his mouth and talking to Turkey's Mert Multur during those tense moments. Referee Evan Barton then applied the 'Prestianni Rule' for the first time, showing Almiron a straight red card without any hesitation.
Background: In the aftermath of the Vinicius Junior–Gianluca Prestianni incident, FIFA brought in new guidelines because hushing during face-to-face confrontations with an opposing player could be used to cover up discriminatory or abusive behavior. Accordingly, anyone who mumbles while colliding with an opposing player will be punished with a straight red card.
Despite Almiron's dismissal, Paraguay did not let go of their grip and kept the match under control. In the end they secured the win and made it possible to knock Turkey out of the tournament as well.
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