Archive · 28 Jul 2026
IFAB Declares Embolo's Red Card Wrong
During the World Cup quarter-final between Switzerland and Argentina, Switzerland's forward Breel Embolo was given a red card for simulation after receiving a second yellow card.
The decision was controversial because the referee initially booked Argentina's Leandro Paredes for a foul but then changed it to Embolo after VAR review.
IFAB, the football law-making body, explained that VAR can only correct mistaken identity, not the offence itself.
Switzerland's coach Murat Yakin was upset, saying the rule was unfair and cost them the game.
Argentina won the match 3-1 and later lost the final to Spain.
Breel Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation during Switzerland's World Cup quarter-final against Argentina.
The referee initially booked Argentina's Leandro Paredes but changed it to Embolo after VAR review.
IFAB clarified that VAR can only correct mistaken identity, not the offence itself.
Switzerland's coach Murat Yakin called the rule 'unacceptable' and said it cost them the game.
Argentina won the match 3-1 and later lost the final to Spain.
- Who
- Breel Embolo, Switzerland's forward
- What
- Controversial red card for simulation
- When
- During the World Cup quarter-final against Argentina
- Where
- Kansas City
- Why
- IFAB clarified that VAR cannot review the offence itself, only mistaken identity
FIFA and IFAB's Stance
Switzerland's Perspective
VAR Usage for Simulation
FIFA and IFAB's Stance
IFAB states that VAR cannot review the offence itself, only the identity of the player booked.
Switzerland's Perspective
Switzerland's coach Murat Yakin finds the rule unacceptable, believing it unfairly impacted their game.
- Player
- Breel Embolo
- Team
- Switzerland
- Opponent
- Argentina
- Match Outcome
- Argentina won 3-1
- Controversial Decision
- Second yellow card for simulation
- IFAB Statement
- VAR cannot review the offence itself, only mistaken identity
- Coach's Reaction
- Murat Yakin called the rule 'unacceptable'
- Final Result
- Spain won the final
