Football’s law-making body, the International Football Association Board (IFAB), has reportedly confirmed that Switzerland striker Breel Embolo should not have been sent off during his team’s World Cup clash against Argentina.
The decision comes after IFAB reviewed the use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system during the tournament and clarified the limits of video intervention in disciplinary situations.
According to reports, IFAB stated that VAR was incorrectly used in the incident involving Embolo. The organisation explained that video review officials are only permitted to intervene to correct the identity of a player who has been shown a card, but they cannot overturn a referee’s decision involving a yellow or red card in cases such as alleged simulation.
The ruling has raised further discussions about the application of VAR and the need for clearer guidelines to ensure consistency in major international competitions.
Embolo’s dismissal during the match against Argentina attracted attention after the Swiss forward was accused of simulation following a challenge.
The referee initially issued a card, but the decision was later reviewed, leading to a red card being shown to the player.
However, IFAB’s clarification suggests that the intervention went beyond the authority given to VAR officials under the current laws of the game.
IFAB, which is responsible for determining and updating football’s laws, has continued to review the performance of VAR since its introduction at the highest level of the sport.
The organisation has maintained that technology should support referees rather than replace their authority on the pitch.
