Breel Embolo sent off in World Cup quarter-final due to mistaken identity rule
Mistaken Identity Rule Applied
Switzerland forward Breel Embolo was sent off during his country’s World Cup 2026 quarter-final match against Argentina, becoming the first player to be dismissed under a new mistaken identity rule. The incident occurred in the 72nd minute of the game, five minutes after Switzerland had equalised against the defending world champions.
Initially, a yellow card was shown to Argentina’s Leandro Paredes following what appeared to be a challenge. However, the video assistant referee (VAR) intervened, prompting referee Joao Pinheiro to review the play on the monitor. Upon review, the official determined that Embolo had simulated a foul.
The new rule, introduced by FIFA for the tournament, allows for a decision to be changed if a player is booked or sent off but the foul was actually committed by an opposition player. The rule specifies that if the referee penalises an offence but clearly misidentifies the player who committed it, only the identity of the attacker can be reviewed. In this case, the VAR determined that Embolo was the player who committed the offence of simulation, not Paredes.
Embolo had already received a yellow card in the first half for a foul on Paredes. The second yellow card for simulation resulted in his dismissal. The 29-year-old left the pitch in Kansas City visibly upset, being consoled by his teammates.
Reactions to the Dismissal
Swiss coach Murat Yakin expressed strong disapproval of the decision. He stated that there was no reason to issue a yellow card, describing the situation as harmless and suggesting play should have continued. Yakin criticised the rule as unacceptable, stating, “It’s a rule that has nothing to do with football. It destroyed our game.” He added that while the team had to accept the outcome, losing in such a manner was painful.
Despite the Swiss coach’s comments, some pundits offered limited sympathy for Embolo. Former Major League Soccer striker Bradley Wright-Phillips commented that he felt for Embolo’s teammates but not for Embolo himself, suggesting the incident might have cost his team a semi-final spot. Former Jamaica international Jobi McAnuff added that Embolo had let himself and his teammates down, noting that while it was simulation, one could still feel sorry for him.
The first instance of this rule being used earlier in the tournament involved USA defender Tim Ream, who was initially booked for a foul. After VAR intervention, the caution was rescinded, and Miguel Almiron was instead booked for simulation.
Match Outcome and Semi-Final Fixture
Following Embolo’s red card, Argentina went on to win the quarter-final match 3-1 in extra time against the 10-man Swiss side. Julian Alvarez scored a goal in the 112th minute, and Lautaro Martinez added a late third, securing Argentina’s victory. This result sets up a semi-final clash between Argentina and England.
Yakin praised his team’s effort despite being a man down, stating, “This team has so much passion. Despite the fact we were one man down, we gave it all. I’m extremely proud of everyone.” The semi-final match between Argentina and England is scheduled to be shown live on the BBC.
The match saw Lionel Messi provide his tenth World Cup assist, setting up Alexis Mac Allister‘s opener. However, Messi did not score in the match, with Alvarez’s goal being a significant moment. The upcoming semi-final will mark Messi’s first encounter against England in a World Cup match.
Read Also
Source: bbc.com
