Bundesliga clarifies rules for mouth covering in player confrontations

The German Football Federation (DFB) has confirmed that players in the Bundesliga will only receive a yellow card for covering their mouth during confrontations, instead of being sent off. This decision distinguishes the Bundesliga's approach from that of the recent World Cup, where players faced harsher penalties for similar actions. The ruling follows concerns raised during matches, including an incident involving Vinícius Júnior. Additionally, the DFB will implement rules to address time-wasting, such as countdowns at throw-ins and goal kicks. Players who slow down substitutions can face temporary disadvantages.

• 2:18 PMYahoo Sports — Bundesliga players who cover mouth will be booked, not sent off