A red card in soccer means instant ejection from the match, and at the 2026 World Cup it has already reshaped several results. Referees pull out the red for serious offenses like violent conduct, denying a clear scoring chance or, under a brand-new rule this year, covering the mouth during a heated exchange with an opponent.

World Cup players have been warned about a new rule that results in a red card for anyone covering their mouth when verbally confronting another player.

World Cup players have been warned about a new rule that results in a red card for anyone covering their mouth when verbally confronting another player

A red card in soccer means instant ejection from the match, and at the 2026 World Cup it has already reshaped several results. Referees pull out the red for serious offenses like…