Piero Hincapie's World Cup campaign ended with a red card as Ecuador was eliminated from the tournament following a 2-0 loss to co-hosts Mexico in the last 32. The Arsenal defender was dismissed in second-half stoppage time for an infraction that has led to two dismissals in this tournament.
During an animated exchange with Mexico's substitute striker Santiago Gimenez, Hincapie was seen covering his mouth while speaking directly to his opponent. Although Hincapie pleaded innocence and appeared incredulous, Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic consulted the VAR and, after reviewing pitchside monitors, showed Hincapie a red card.
México's players quickly alerted the referee to Hincapie's action. The 24-year-old Hincapie reacted with disbelief and a sarcastic clap before exiting the pitch without shaking hands with any of his opponents.
This incident marks the second time a player has been sent off for covering their mouth at this World Cup. Paraguay's Miguel Almiron received a similar red card earlier in the tournament for an infraction against Turkey. Almiron was subsequently banned for one game but returned for his team's next match.
The rule regarding players covering their mouths during confrontations was ratified for this World Cup in April. It gained prominence after Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni was involved in an incident in February where he covered his mouth while speaking to Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. That incident led to an investigation by UEFA, resulting in Prestianni receiving a six-match ban, three of which were suspended, for homophobic conduct.
Hincapie's dismissal concluded a season where he played a key role in Arsenal winning the Premier League title, ending the club's 22-year wait for the trophy.