The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has ruled that Switzerland forward Breel Embolo was incorrectly shown a second yellow card during the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final against Argentina.
The incident occurred in Kansas City, where Argentina won 3-1 after extra time.
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Embolo was dismissed following a VAR review that led the referee to book him for simulation after a challenge from Leandro Paredes.
Initially, the referee booked Paredes.
VAR advised no foul had occurred, so the referee instead cautioned Embolo for diving — his second yellow — leaving Switzerland with ten men.
Argentina then scored twice in extra time.
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IFAB Clarifies VAR Rules
IFAB stated that a yellow card other than a second yellow can only be reviewed to identify the player, not to amend the offence itself.
The mistaken identity clause was used to address simulation, but IFAB noted it cannot be applied until a full review of the VAR protocol is concluded.
Switzerland coach Murat Yakin called the decision "unacceptable," saying it cost his team a historic semi-final spot. "It destroyed our game today," he said.
FIFA defended its interpretation, arguing that correcting the booking restored justice.
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The controversy added to debate over Argentina's tournament path, which included a disciplinary investigation after their final loss to Spain.
