Image credit: Getty Images. By Simon Stone. Lead football news correspondent. Le 13 juin 2026. Four matches, three opening ceremonies, two host nations claiming victory and a captivating display during an entertaining stalemate for the third. Despite concerns over ticket pricing and denied access for officials and players, the tournament has made a solid beginning. Now things are about to intensify. Eleven consecutive days featuring four games each, followed by three days with six matches apiece. As fans adjust to the various kick-off times, they’re also wrestling with new rule alterations that, in certain cases, are leaving players, coaches, spectators and television audiences somewhat bewildered. Here we explain some of those modifications. 63 days ago. Correct result, flawed choice? When Dutch referee Danny Makkelie halted the United States vs Paraguay match shortly after the start of the second half after Antonee Robinson headed the ball out of the home penalty area, the reason was not immediately obvious. It emerged that Spanish VAR Carlos del Cerro Grande had instructed him to check the pitchside monitor after he had booked USA captain Tim Ream for fouling Paraguay’s Miguel Almiron. Since Almiron had not been touched, Makkelie overturned the yellow card and instead cautioned the former Newcastle player. It appeared the updated ‘mistaken identity’ rule was being applied, a decision many viewers welcomed. “Good spot and the right decision I may add.”