What Happened During the VAR Review?

Almirón, Paraguay’s captain and a key playmaker, was shown a red card after covering his mouth with his hand during a VAR review of a potential foul on Turkey’s Enes Ünal. The referee, Szymon Marciniak, consulted with the VAR team before pointing to the players’ bench, signaling Almirón’s expulsion.

According to match officials and FIFA’s post-match report, the decision followed a direct application of the ‘Vinicius Jr. Protocol,’ which was implemented after the 2022 World Cup to address players obstructing VAR reviews. The protocol states that any player who deliberately covers their face or mouth during a video review—whether to avoid being identified or to disrupt the process—will face immediate ejection.

Key moment: The incident occurred after Turkey’s Enes Ünal appeared to make contact with Almirón in the box. VAR officials reviewed the play for a potential penalty, at which point Almirón covered his mouth. The referee, after consulting with the VAR monitor, ruled it a red card under the protocol.

Why Was This Rule Introduced?

The ‘Vinicius Jr. Protocol’ was created in response to Brazil forward Vinicius Jr.’s red card in the 2022 World Cup final against Argentina. During a VAR review of a potential foul on Argentina’s Emiliano Martínez, Vinicius Jr. covered his mouth with his hand, leading to his expulsion. FIFA later clarified that the rule was intended to prevent players from obstructing VAR reviews by hiding their faces or mouths.

According to FIFA’s official guidelines, the protocol applies when a player:

• Covers their face or mouth during a VAR review.
• Deliberately obstructs the referee’s or VAR team’s view.
• Engages in behavior that could be interpreted as attempting to mislead the review process.

FIFA spokesperson: “The protocol was introduced to ensure transparency and fairness in VAR decisions. Players must not interfere with the review process, whether intentionally or not.”

How Does This Affect Paraguay’s World Cup Campaign?

Almirón’s expulsion leaves Paraguay with 10 players for their final group-stage match against Japan on June 19. The team, already struggling after a 1-0 loss to Japan earlier in the tournament, will need to adapt tactically without their captain.

Coach Eduardo Berizzo, speaking to reporters after the match, acknowledged the impact but remained focused on the next game:

“We knew this could happen. Gustavo is a leader, and his absence will be felt, but we have to move forward. The team is united, and we will give everything for Japan.”

Japan, currently leading Group E with 3 points, will look to extend their lead. Paraguay, with 3 points from two matches, must win to advance as one of the best third-place teams.

What Are the Broader Implications for FIFA and VAR?

Almirón’s expulsion marks the first time the ‘Vinicius Jr. Protocol’ has been applied in a World Cup, raising questions about its consistency and enforcement. While FIFA has stated the rule is clear, some pundits and former players argue it could lead to unintended consequences, such as:

• Players reacting emotionally during VAR reviews, even if unintentionally.
• Referees applying the rule inconsistently across different tournaments.
• A potential chilling effect on players’ natural reactions during high-pressure moments.

Former FIFA referee Pierluigi Collina told FIFA.com that the protocol was “necessary but must be applied with caution.” He added, “The key is ensuring referees are trained to distinguish between deliberate obstruction and an emotional reaction.”

FIFA has not yet commented on whether they will review the protocol’s application in this match, but the incident is likely to be discussed in the lead-up to the next World Cup.

How Have Other Players Reacted to the Rule?

Since its introduction, the ‘Vinicius Jr. Protocol’ has been applied in lower-tier competitions, but Almirón’s expulsion is the first in a World Cup. Reactions from players and coaches have been mixed:

• Supportive: Some argue the rule is fair, as it prevents players from deliberately interfering with VAR decisions. “It’s about respect for the process,” said former England defender Gary Neville.
• Critical: Others believe it could lead to over-punishment, especially in moments of frustration. “Players will react differently under pressure,” said former Spain midfielder Xavi Hernández.

Almirón himself has not publicly commented on the incident, but teammates and coaches have defended his actions, suggesting he was not attempting to obstruct the review but reacting to the moment.

What’s Next for Paraguay and the World Cup?

Paraguay’s next match against Japan will be a crucial test. Without Almirón, the team will need to rely on young talents like Kevin Villalba and Derlis González to maintain their attacking threat.

Match details:

• Date: June 19, 2024
• Time: 12:00 PM UTC (4:00 PM local time in Doha)
• Venue: Khalifa International Stadium, Doha
• TV: Available on FIFA+ and major broadcasters worldwide

Japan, meanwhile, will look to secure their place in the knockout stages. A win would put them in a strong position, while Paraguay will need a victory to have any hope of advancing.