Switzerland's Breel Embolo made unwanted history on Saturday, becoming the first player to be sent off due to a mistaken identity review by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) during a World Cup quarterfinal against Argentina in Kansas City.
Embolo was dismissed in the 72nd minute after a VAR intervention overturned an initial yellow card given to Argentina's Leandro Paredes for a foul on the Swiss forward. Upon review, referee Joao Pedro Silva Pinheiro determined that Embolo had dived during the tackle and issued him a second yellow card, resulting in a red card.
How the Mistake Unfolded
The incident began when Paredes was booked for a challenge on Embolo. However, the VAR team, monitoring from a remote location, identified that Embolo had simulated contact. After a pitch-side review, the referee rescinded Paredes' yellow card and instead showed one to Embolo, who was already on a yellow card from earlier in the match.
Switzerland's Reaction
Swiss players and coaching staff protested the decision vigorously, but replays supported the official's call. Embolo left the pitch in tears, consoled by teammates.
Understanding Mistaken Identity
According to the International Football Association Board (IFAB), mistaken identity occurs when a referee penalizes the wrong player for an offense. New VAR protocols allow such errors to be corrected during matches.
Match Impact
With the score tied at 1-1 after Embolo's red card, Switzerland held on through regular time but ultimately conceded two goals in extra time, losing 3-1 and exiting the tournament.