IFAB clarifies VAR process regarding Embolo's red card in World Cup
ESPN Soccer • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 28, 2026, 9:05 AM
Last updated Jul 28, 2026
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) clarified that Breel Embolo's red card during the World Cup quarterfinals against Argentina was incorrect. Specifically, Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation, altering the match's momentum when the score was tied at 1-1. Argentina went on to win 3-1 in extra time, with the decision contributing to complaints from other teams about perceived favoritism towards Argentina. IFAB stated that the VAR protocol for 'mistaken identity' was misapplied in this case. They noted that the current rules do not allow for a review of the offense itself, only identification of the player who committed it, which means such incidents are being re-evaluated in the ongoing review of VAR procedures.
- •IFAB confirmed Embolo's red card in the World Cup was a mistake.
- •Argentina won the match 3-1 in extra time after Embolo's dismissal.
- •The clarification addressed complaints of referee bias favoring Argentina.
- •The use of VAR for mistaken identity will be reevaluated.
- •IFAB's review of VAR protocols has been ongoing since March.
- 12:48 PMESPN Soccer — IFAB: VAR process of Embolo's red card wrong
- 9:05 AMYahoo Sports — Soccer rules panel clarifies VAR process that World Cup red card for Switzerland's Embolo was wrong
"Soccer’s law-making panel clarified its guidance to referees which confirmed Switzerland forward Breel Embolo should not have been sent off in the World Cup quarterfinals against Argentina. Embolo’s second yellow card, after a video review for simulating being fouled, changed the momentum of the game in the 72nd minute soon after Switzerland tied the score at 1-1. Argentina won 3-1 in extra time with help from the red-card decision that fueled complaints, including from previous opponent Egypt, referees were favoring Lionel Messi’s team with decisions.
"IFAB clarified its guidance to referees which confirmed Switzerland forward Breel Embolo should not have been sent off in the World Cup quarterfinals against Argentina.
Sources
External links- ESPN SoccerJul 28, 2026, 12:48 PMIFAB: VAR process of Embolo's red card wrong
IFAB clarified its guidance to referees which confirmed Switzerland forward Breel Embolo should not have been sent off in the World Cup quarterfinals against Argentina.
- Yahoo SportsJul 28, 2026, 9:05 AMSoccer rules panel clarifies VAR process that World Cup red card for Switzerland's Embolo was wrong
Soccer’s law-making panel clarified its guidance to referees which confirmed Switzerland forward Breel Embolo should not have been sent off in the World Cup quarterfinals against Argentina. Embolo’s second yellow card, after a video review for simulating being fouled, changed the momentum of the game in the 72nd minute soon after Switzerland tied the score at 1-1. Argentina won 3-1 in extra time with help from the red-card decision that fueled complaints, including from previous opponent Egypt, referees were favoring Lionel Messi’s team with decisions.
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