The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has clarified its guidance, confirming that Switzerland forward Breel Embolo should not have been sent off in the World Cup quarterfinals against Argentina. Embolo received a second yellow card after a video review for simulating a foul, a decision that altered the game's momentum in the 72nd minute when the score was tied 1-1. Argentina ultimately won 3-1 in extra time.

The FIFA-backed rules panel stated that the VAR protocol for "mistaken identity" cases was not applicable to this incident at the World Cup, though it may be used in future competitions. The IFAB explained that the VAR can only be used to identify the correct player for an offense, not to review or change the nature of the offense itself. In this case, the referee incorrectly used the mistaken identity clause to penalize Embolo for simulation after identifying that Leandro Paredes did not commit the initial foul.

Switzerland coach Murat Yakin expressed his dismay, stating the rule "destroyed our game." IFAB acknowledged that incidents like Embolo's are part of an ongoing review of VAR protocol, noting that the use of the mistaken identity clause for simulation was "well received" despite the misapplication in this instance. IFAB is responsible for updating the Laws of the Game.