Explained: Why Breel Embolo was shown red card after VAR review
Switzerland's Breel Embolo was sent off during a FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal match against Argentina following a VAR review. The referee determined Embolo had simulated a foul to win a penalty, resulting in a second yellow card and an automatic red.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the controversial impact of VAR technology on high-stakes international sports and the rare application of the 'mistaken identity' protocol in World Cup history.
Switzerland forward Breel Embolo was sent off during his side's FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal against Argentina after a dramatic VAR review on Saturday. The incident happened shortly after Switzerland had equalised to make it 1-1 in the second half.Referee initially showed a yellow card to Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes for a challenge on Embolo. However, a video review told a different story. Why was Embolo shown a red card?VAR found that Embolo had started falling before Paredes made any contact with him.
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