Controversy! England's €130 million star escapes red card for covering his mouth while talking, Paraguay files angry appeal accusing double standards

On the evening of June 24, Beijing time, Spanish media *AS* reported that England star Jude Bellingham did not receive a red card for covering his mouth while communicating during the World Cup match against Ghana. Paraguay has decided to submit a formal protest to FIFA.

During the second round of the World Cup group stage between England and Ghana, Bellingham, valued at €130 million, was seen covering his mouth while engaging in conversation with Ghanaian captain Jordan Ayew.

This has sparked massive controversy because Bellingham was not shown a red card, whereas just a few days earlier, Paraguay's player Miguel Almirón was sent off with a straight red card for a similar action in a match against Turkey.

As is well known, due to the controversy caused by Real Madrid star Vinícius Jr. in the Champions League, FIFA introduced the "Vinícius rule" during the World Cup.

Under this rule, any player who covers their mouth with their hand, arm, or shirt during confrontations or disputes—and is deemed by the referee to be engaging in unsportsmanlike communication—will be sent off immediately.

In Bellingham's case, however, the "Vinícius rule" was not enforced. It has been reported that the Paraguayan Football Association, angered by this, has already filed a formal complaint with FIFA regarding the alleged inconsistent application of the new rule during the World Cup.

In a strongly worded letter, a Paraguayan FA official stated: "The rules must be applied equally to all teams, or they lose all credibility."

British media, on the other hand, defended Bellingham, arguing that his exchange with Ayew did not appear aggressive and therefore did not meet the criteria for a red card.

Once FIFA formally receives the complaint, it will have to open a case and review both incidents. As a result of Paraguay's appeal, Bellingham could face a retrospective red card and a suspension.