Paraguay Draws Attention for Breaking New World Cup Rules in Win Over Turkey

Paraguay beat Turkey 1-0 in the second round of the 2026 World Cup, but the result was overshadowed by repeated breaches of the tournament’s new rules. The team became one of the most talked-about sides in the competition after drawing a series of unusual punishments that highlighted how strictly the updated regulations are being enforced on the pitch.

Miguel Almiron was sent off after covering his mouth while speaking to an opposing player, in a violation tied to the so-called “Vinicius rule.” Paraguay was also penalized with a corner kick to Turkey after its goalkeeper delayed restarting play by holding the ball for more than eight seconds. In another incident, the team had to play with 10 men for one minute because medical treatment for a player caused further delay.

Despite the win, Paraguayan media sharply criticized the team. One comment said, “It is crazy. They looked like they went out to play without knowing the updated rules, they were only missing holding the ball with their hands.” Turkish journalist Firat Gunaier also mocked the performance, saying, “Paraguay violated every new rule possible, a complete lack of familiarity with the new rules.”

Gunaier also criticized Turkey, adding that “the fact that we could not score against a team that came into the match like this is not logical.”