What was the mistaken identity red card shown in Argentina vs Switzerland?
Switzerland's Breel Embolo was sent off during a World Cup quarterfinal against Argentina due to a rare 'mistaken identity' VAR review. The referee initially booked an Argentinian player before correcting the decision to dismiss Embolo for a dive.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the ongoing debate and technical challenges surrounding the implementation of VAR in high-stakes international football.
Switzerland’s Breel Embolo became the first player to be sent off after a VAR review in the last World Cup quarterfinal.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Switzerland's Breel Embolo remonstrates with referee Joao Pedro Silva Pinheiro after he was shown the second yellow card [Denny Medley/Reuters] By Hafsa Adil Published On 12 Jul 2026 12 Jul 2026 The World Cup has seen its first “mistaken identity” red card, with Switzerland’s Breel Embolo sent off in his team’s quarterfinal against Argentina in Kansas City.
Embolo became the first player to be penalised for mistaken identity when he was dismissed in the 72nd minute of the match on Saturday.
It all began when Argentina’s Leandro Paredes was given a yellow card for a foul on Embolo, but the decision was reviewed by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in the 71st minute.
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