IFAB admits Breel Embolo was wrongly sent off against Argentina in World Cup quarter-final

Switzerland forward Breel Embolo should not have been sent off during this month’s FIFA World Cup quarter-final against Argentina, according to a circular released by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) on Tuesday.

Embolo was shown a second yellow card during the second half with the match delicately poised at 1-1. Reduced to 10 men, Switzerland were unable to hold on as Argentina scored twice in extra time to secure a 3-1 victory in Kansas City and book their place in the semi-finals.

Controversial VAR Decision

The incident occurred after Embolo went to ground following a challenge from Leandro Paredes. Referee Joao Pinheiro initially cautioned the Argentina midfielder for the challenge.

However, following communication with the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), Pinheiro was informed that no foul had been committed. The original booking was overturned, and Embolo was instead shown a yellow card for simulation, resulting in his dismissal after receiving a second caution.

IFAB Clarifies the Law

In its latest circular, IFAB confirmed that the decision should not have been made under the current Laws of the Game.

The law-making body explained that while VAR is permitted to intervene in cases of mistaken identity when the wrong player has been cautioned, it cannot review or change the offence that led to a yellow card unless it involves a straight red-card incident.

“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 or changed,” IFAB stated.

The organisation added that the temporary use of the mistaken identity clause during the 2026 FIFA World Cup had received positive feedback and will now form part of a wider review of the VAR protocol. However, it stressed that the interpretation cannot be applied again until that review has been completed.

Murat Yakin Criticises the Rule

Following Switzerland’s elimination, head coach Murat Yakin described the rule that led to Embolo’s dismissal as “unacceptable.”

“It destroyed our game today. We have to accept it, but it’s painful to lose that way,” Yakin said after the match.

The controversial decision proved to be a turning point, with Switzerland’s hopes of reaching their first-ever World Cup semi-final coming to an end.

Despite advancing past Switzerland, defending champions Argentina were ultimately beaten by Spain in the FIFA World Cup Final, surrendering their world title.