Switzerland forward Breel Embolo became the first player at this year's World Cup to be sent off under a newly introduced law aimed at preventing mistaken identity in disciplinary decisions.
Embolo, who had already been booked in the first half, received a second yellow card in the 72nd minute of his team's quarter-final loss to Argentina for simulation. The incident began when referee Joao Pinheiro initially cautioned Argentina's Leandro Paredes for what seemed a clumsy challenge. However, after a video assistant referee (VAR) review, the official determined that Embolo had dived, and the yellow card was transferred to the Swiss striker, resulting in his dismissal.
The red card came just five minutes after Switzerland had equalized against the defending champions, leaving Embolo in tears as he left the pitch in Kansas City, consoled by teammates.
"There was definitely no reason to award a yellow card," said Swiss coach Murat Yakin. "It was a harmless situation. He should have let play continue. We were punished because of a rule that is unacceptable. I don't understand it."
Pundits were less sympathetic. "I feel for Embolo's teammates, I don't feel for him. He has cost his team maybe getting through to the semi-finals," said former MLS striker Bradley Wright-Phillips on ITV. Former Jamaica international Jobi McAnuff added: "Breel Embolo let himself down, he let his teammates down. It was simulation but you can't help but feel sorry for him."
Argentina eventually won 3-1 in extra time and will face England in the semi-finals.
What is the new law?
FIFA introduced several rule changes for the tournament, including one specifically requested by Pierluigi Collina, head of referees, to address mistaken identity. The rule allows officials to overturn a booking or sending-off if the foul was actually committed by a player from the opposing team. In this case, if Paredes had not been initially booked, the mistaken identity provision would not have applied, and Embolo would have remained on the field.