Switzerland forward Breel Embolo should not have been sent off during this month’s World Cup quarter‑final against Argentina, according to a clarification issued Tuesday by football’s law‑making body, the International Football Association Board (IFAB).
Embolo received a second yellow card in the second half with the match tied 1‑1. Referee Joao Pinheiro initially booked Argentina’s Leandro Paredes for a challenge, but VAR informed him that no foul had occurred leading Pinheiro to instead caution Embolo for simulation, resulting in his dismissal. Argentina went on to score twice in extra time, defeating 10‑man Switzerland 3‑1 in Kansas City.
In its circular, IFAB said VAR can intervene only in cases of mistaken identity, meaning it may correct who committed an offence but cannot review or change the offence itself when it involves a yellow card.
“A yellow card which is not a second yellow card can only be reviewed to identify the player who committed the offence that was penalised; the offence itself cannot be reviewed or changed,” IFAB stated.
The organisation added that the mistaken‑identity clause used during the FIFA World Cup 2026 to address simulation was “well received” and will be considered in a future review of VAR protocols but cannot be applied again until that review is complete.
Switzerland coach Murat Yakin called the rule “unacceptable,” saying Embolo’s dismissal “destroyed our game today” and cost the team a historic chance to reach its first World Cup semi‑final.
Embolo, 29, remains adamant he did not simulate. Argentina, the defending champions, later lost the final to Spain.
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