IFAB admits VAR error as Breel Embolo red card vs Argentina in FIFA World Cup 2026 deemed incorrect
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Embolo was sent off for simulation against Argentina.
Football’s law-making tribunal, IFAB (International Football Association Board), reinforced its guidelines to referees, confirming that Switzerland striker Breel Embolo shouldn’t have been sent off in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals against Argentina.
Breel Embolo’s second yellow card, issued following a video review (VAR) for simulating a foul, shifted the game’s direction in the 72nd minute, just after Switzerland drew level at 1-1.
Argentina triumphed 3-1 in extra time. Thanks to a red card judgement that sparked allegations, especially from previous opponent Egypt, that officials were favouring Lionel Messi’s squad with rulings.
IFAB reveals why Breel Embolo shouldn’t have been sent off
The FIFA-backed rules council known as the IFAB clarified Monday that the VAR methodology for “mistaken identity” incidents did not apply to that sort of occurrence during the World Cup. But it may be applied in future competitions.
“A yellow card (caution) 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/changed.”
“The use of the mistaken identity clause to deal with simulation during the World Cup was well received and will be included in the detailed review of the VAR protocol announced in Circular No. 32. However, it may not be used as such until that review is concluded.”
Breel Embolo tumbled to the ground after being challenged by Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes, who was given a yellow card.
The VAR authorities informed the referee that Paredes had not committed a foul; therefore, Embolo received his second yellow card and was sent off.
That is not how “mistaken identity” is currently intended to be used. It is meant to correct the referee when a card is handed to the incorrect player who did not commit the original foul.
Since March, IFAB has been reviewing the VAR methodology. Incidents like Embolo’s have been identified as part of that examination.
Why was Breel Embolo shown a red card against Argentina?
Due to a simulation which resulted in his red card.
Why did IFAB say Breel Embolo shouldn’t have been sent off?
They said VAR methodology for “mistaken identity” incidents did not apply to that sort of occurrence during the World Cup.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.