The World Cup witnessed its first-ever 'mistaken identity' red card as Switzerland forward Breel Embolo was sent off in the 72nd minute of the quarterfinal against Argentina in Kansas City.

The incident began when Argentina's Leandro Paredes received a yellow card for a foul on Embolo. However, a VAR review overturned the decision: Paredes' yellow was rescinded, and Embolo was shown a second yellow card for simulation.

Referee Joao Pedro Silva Pinheiro initially penalized Paredes, but after consulting with the VAR team and reviewing replays, he determined that Embolo had dived. The Swiss striker, already on a yellow card, was dismissed.

Embolo left the pitch in tears, consoled by teammates. Swiss players and coaching staff protested the decision, but most experts and neutral observers agreed it was correct.

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) defines 'mistaken identity' as a 'match-changing' error when the referee penalizes the wrong player. New VAR rules allow such errors to be corrected.

The match was tied 1-1 at the time of the red card. Switzerland held on for the remainder of normal time but conceded two goals in extra time while a man down, ultimately being eliminated from the tournament.

Source: www.aljazeera.com