Jude Bellingham of England sparked controversy during a 0-0 draw against Ghana in a 2026 World Cup qualifying match. The 22-year-old midfielder was observed covering his mouth during a heated exchange with Ghanaian forward Jordan Ayew. This action potentially violates a new FIFA rule prohibiting covering the mouth during disputes, intended to prevent abusive language directed at officials. Despite the apparent infraction, referee Said Martinez did not issue a yellow card or any other penalty to Bellingham. The incident has raised questions about the consistent application of the new FIFA rule and why Bellingham escaped disciplinary action. Football observers are debating whether the referee overlooked the gesture or deemed it insufficient to warrant a card.