This was the moment Miguel Almiron took a brutal elbow to the face while on international duty with Paraguay overnight.
The 26-year-old has struggled for game-time for Newcastle in the Premier League this season and all parties were keen for Almiron to get some invaluable minutes under his belt for his national side.
By all accounts, though, Almiron struggled to make an impact in the 2-2 draw with Peru as he lined up on the right-hand side of La Albirroja's attacking midfield three as opposed to his favoured number 10 role.
His night ended in injury as he pulled up with what looked like a muscular problem during stoppage time. He was replaced by Antonio Sanabria and taken off the pitch in a cart.
For the sake of Paraguay, Newcastle and Almiron, it is hoped it was just a touch of cramp rather than something more severe, with important games for club and country on the horizon.
But to add insult to injury, Almiron also took a hefty blow to the face during the first half of Paraguay's opening 2022 World Cup qualifying encounter.
While dribbling at pace with the ball, Almiron cut inside only to met by the meaty challenge of Peru defender Carlos Zambrano.
Not only did Zambrano win the ball, but he also left his elbow in the path of Almiron's run. The Magpies midfielder took a full-force blow to the face but after consulting with VAR, a yellow card was adjudged to have been the correct punishment.
Do you agree? Take a look at the video at the top of the article and let us know your verdict.
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