Switzerland’s Breel Embolo became the first player to receive a red card under the World Cup’s new mistaken‑identity rule. After a first‑half booking, he was dismissed at 72 minutes in the quarter‑final against Argentina following a second yellow for simulation. The decision followed a VAR review that identified Embolo’s dive, originally flagged on a challenge by Leandro Paredes.

Ref Joao Pinheiro consulted the monitor when the assistant flagged the incident. VAR confirmed the mis‑identification, overturning the initial caution and issuing the red card. Embolo’s exit left Switzerland with 10 men just five minutes after equalising against the defending champions.

Embolo, 29, stormed off in tears, comforted by teammates but criticised by pundits. Former MLS striker Bradley Wright‑Phillips and ex‑Jamaica coach Jobi Mc Anuff noted that the loss of a key forward hurt Switzerland’s semi‑final hopes.

Argentina edged the match 3‑1 in extra time while playing a man down, securing a spot against England in the semi‑finals. The incident highlights the impact of the new law on tournament play and raises questions about fairness, player safety, and officiating consistency.