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Harry Kane avoids red card for covering mouth in England vs Argentina

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 15, 2026, 8:50 PM

Last updated Jul 15, 2026

Harry Kane avoids red card for covering mouth in England vs Argentina

Summary

During the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, Harry Kane escaped a red card despite covering his mouth while talking to referee Ismail Elfath. Argentina's Leandro Paredes contested the action, but FIFA rules specify that only conversations with opponents warrant punishment for this behavior. The first half saw 19 fouls, contributing to a tense atmosphere. Former Premier League official Graham Scott noted that Kane's sarcastic style of questioning referees might lead to unfavorable decisions against him in the future.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Kane was seen covering his mouth while talking to Elfath.
•Paredes and teammates requested Kane's dismissal.
•New FIFA rules punish mouth-covering in talks with opponents.
•19 fouls were committed in the first half.
•Kane's questioning style could influence referees' decisions.

Latest Updates

8:50 PMYahoo Sports — Why Harry Kane wasn’t sent off for covering his mouth in World Cup semi-final

What they're saying

"
Argentina wanted Harry Kane to be sent off for covering his mouth during a conversation with the referee during the first half of England vs Argentina. During a cagey first half that saw 19 fouls committed between the two teams, Kane was spotted covering his mouth while chatting to Ismail Elfath.
— Yahoo Sports

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