“Pathetic” Argentina star slammed after Harry Kane controversy
Leandro Paredes appealed for the England captain to be shown a red card during the World Cup clash, but former Three Lions stars blasted the move.
England wasted no time criticizing Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes after he appeared to urge the referee to send off Harry Kane over the so-called “Vinicius rule” in Wednesday’s 2026 World Cup semifinal.
The incident came during the first half after England midfielder Elliot Anderson was shown a yellow card for protesting what he felt were repeated fouls that had gone unpunished. England captain Kane then approached referee Ismail Elfath to discuss the booking.
What happened between Harry Kane and the referee?
As Kane spoke with Elfath, he covered his mouth with his hand, a common practice among players who want to avoid lip readers. Paredes then appealed for Kane to be sent off, arguing that covering his mouth violated the so-called “Vinicius rule.”
📸 - Paredes spotted Harry Kane putting his hand close to his mouth and was trying to get him send off by telling the referee that he had his hand close to his mouth. pic.twitter.com/AXCzJI4wpD
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) July 15, 2026
However, the rule does not apply in this situation. It prohibits players from covering their mouths while speaking to other players during certain disciplinary situations, but it does not extend to conversations between players and referees.
Joe Hart and Wayne Rooney slam Paredes
Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart was among those who condemned Paredes’ actions during the BBC’s broadcast.
“Pathetic‚” Hart said. “He was talking to the referee. He was trying to be clear. It’s so difficult to communicate out there. Harry Kane’s just trying to have a conversation with the referee. I get it. Of course they’re going to do anything they can to win this game.”
Wayne Rooney also criticized the appeal.
“I think it’s ridiculous,” Rooney said. “The rule exists so referees know what one player is saying to another, but Kane was speaking directly to the referee. It’s pathetic to ask for him to be sent off.”
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