The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has clarified its stance regarding referees’ decisions, specifically stating that Switzerland forward Breel Embolo should not have received a red card during the World Cup quarterfinal match against Argentina.
Embolo was issued a second yellow card for allegedly simulating a foul during a video review in the 72nd minute, just after Switzerland had equalized at 1-1. The decision shifted the game’s momentum.
Argentina eventually secured a 3-1 victory in extra time, benefiting from the controversial red-card decision that sparked complaints, including from prior opponent Egypt. Critics argued that referees appeared to favor Lionel Messi‘s team with their decisions.
On Monday, the FIFA-backed rules panel clarified that VAR protocols for handling “mistaken identity” situations were not applicable to this incident during the World Cup, although they could be in future events.
According to the IFAB, “However, it may not be used as such until that review is concluded.”
During the match, Embolo was taken down by Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes, who received a yellow card for his challenge. However, the VAR officials informed the referee that Paredes had not committed a foul, leading to Embolo receiving a yellow card—his second—and being sent off.
This situation does not align with the current application of “mistaken identity,” which is intended to correct instances where a card is issued to the wrong player responsible for the original foul.
Switzerland’s coach, Murat Yakin, voiced his frustration after the game in Kansas City, stating, “The referee made the wrong decision. I know they will protect their referee but this rule destroyed our game today, and it’s very painful. To be eliminated in that way hurts a lot.”
IFAB clarified that a yellow card “can only be reviewed to identify the player who committed the offense that was penalized; the offense itself cannot be reviewed or changed.”
The review of VAR protocols has been ongoing since March, and IFAB acknowledged that incidents like Embolo’s are part of this discussion.
The Zurich-based organization mentioned, “The use of the mistaken identity clause to deal with simulation during the FIFA World Cup 2026 was well received.” IFAB is made up of FIFA-appointed officials along with the four British football federations, and it convenes annually in February or March to update The Laws of the Game that are applicable for major tournaments or the upcoming season.