A new interpretation of a FIFA rule regarding defensive positioning during free kicks led to a yellow card for Paraguay’s Almirón during a recent friendly match against the United States. The incident occurred in the 50th minute at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, involving Paraguayan player Almirón and US defender Tim Ream. The referee applied a rule stating that defenders must be at least one meter away from the ball during free kicks, a previously loosely enforced guideline. This stricter application caught Almirón off guard as he positioned himself near the ball, resulting in the caution. The decision has sparked debate about the clarity and consistent enforcement of the rule ahead of the 2026 World Cup. FIFA is expected to provide further clarification to referees regarding the implementation of this rule. This is the first high-profile instance of the rule being actively enforced in this manner.