Ecuador defender Piero Hincapie was sent off in stoppage time during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match against Mexico at Mexico City Stadium on Tuesday.
Co-host Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 to book a place in the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, thanks to first-half goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez.
Why was Piero Hincapie sent off during Mexico-Ecuador?
Piero Hincapie was sent off after covering his mouth as he faced off against Mexico’s Santiago Gimenez deep into stoppage time with his side on the brink of elimination.
According to FIFA rules, a player who covers his mouth with his hand, arm or shirt in confrontation situations will receive a red card.
For example, players who cover their mouths while having friendly conversations with opposing teammates will not be punished.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino pushed for the new rule after Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni tried to cover up verbal insults towards Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior in a Champions League match.
The Arsenal man became the second player to be sent off under this rule after Paraguay’s Miguel Almiron was given marching orders during the Group D match against Turkiye.
Published on July 1, 2026
