IFAB has acknowledged that Breel Embolo’s red card during Switzerland’s World Cup quarter‑final against Argentina was issued in error. Embolo received a second yellow in the second half with the score at 1‑1, after going down under a challenge from Leandro Paredes. Referee Joao Pinheiro initially booked the Argentina midfielder, but VAR advised that no foul had occurred, leading Pinheiro to caution Embolo for simulation.
In its clarification, IFAB stated that VAR can intervene only in cases of mistaken identity when a yellow card is shown, not to reassess the offence itself. The organisation added that the use of mistaken identity to address simulation at the 2026 World Cup will be reviewed, but cannot be applied until that process is complete. Switzerland coach Murat Yakin called the rule “unacceptable” after his side fell 3‑1 in extra time, missing out on a historic first semi‑final. Defending champions Argentina later lost the final to Spain.