Arsenal star Piero Hincapie becomes second player to be sent off at World Cup for covering his mouth

Mexico won the match 2-0, advancing to the round of 16 where it will face either England or DR Congo.

The 2026  World Cup is the first to feature red cards for players who cover their mouths during confrontations.

The rule was triggered by a February Champions League match in which Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth with his jersey while directing abuse at Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior, making it impossible for officials to verify what was said.

FIFA responded by giving referees the authority to issue a red card to any player who covers his mouth during a confrontation.

Paraguay’s Miguel Almirón became the first player to be sent off under the new rule, as he saw red in his side’s 1-0 group-stage win against Turkey earlier in the tournament.