Breel Embolo became the first player in FIFA World Cup history to be sent off following a VAR review for a mistaken identity decision during Switzerland’s quarter-final defeat to Argentina.
The incident occurred in the 71st minute when referee João Pinheiro initially showed Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes a yellow card for a challenge on Embolo.
Following a VAR review, the referee overturned the decision after determining that Embolo had simulated the foul. Paredes’ yellow card was rescinded, while Embolo was shown a yellow card instead.
As Embolo had already been booked earlier in the match, the second caution resulted in his dismissal, leaving Switzerland to play the remainder of the match with 10 men.
Under the Laws of the Game, VAR is permitted to intervene in cases of “mistaken identity” when the referee cautions or sends off the wrong player. In this case, the review concluded that the original booking had been issued to the wrong player.
Switzerland held Argentina to a 1-1 draw through normal time but eventually lost 3-1 after conceding twice in extra time.
The dismissal is believed to be the first instance of a player being sent off at a FIFA World Cup after a VAR review corrected a mistaken identity decision. (Newswire)