Switzerland striker Breel Embolo was left inconsolable after becoming the first player to be sent off under FIFA's new mistaken identity VAR rule during a World Cup quarter-final against Argentina. The landmark decision, made by Portuguese referee Joao Pinheiro, saw Leandro Paredes' yellow card rescinded and Embolo shown a second yellow card for simulation.
Controversial Incident Unfolds
The incident occurred in the tense quarter-final clash when Embolo, aged 29, went to ground after minimal contact with Paredes. Initially, Pinheiro booked the Argentinian midfielder. However, VAR officials intervened, instructing the referee to review the monitor and reverse his decision under the new rule that allows correcting cases of mistaken identity.
Announcing the decision to the stadium, Pinheiro stated: "After review, there is no foul for number five, number seven, there is clear simulation, final decision, yellow card number seven."
Impact on Switzerland
The red card reduced Switzerland to 10 men, severely hampering their chances against a strong Argentinian side in a crucial World Cup knockout match. Embolo, a key forward for his national team, was seen in tears as he left the pitch, visibly devastated by the decision.
This marks the first application of the mistaken identity rule at a World Cup, a regulation introduced by FIFA to ensure the correct player is penalized when VAR identifies an error in the original on-field decision. The rule allows VAR to recommend a card be transferred from one player to another if the referee mistakenly booked the wrong individual.
Reactions and Aftermath
The decision has sparked debate among fans and pundits, with many questioning the severity of the punishment for what was deemed simulation. According to Mirror Sport, further updates on this breaking story are expected as the tournament continues.
