FIFA contradicts IFAB over Breel Embolo red card against Argentina at World Cup | OneFootball

FIFA has challenged IFAB over the VAR intervention that led to Breel Embolo’s dismissal against Argentina at the World Cup, saying the outcome restored justice.

In the 3-1 after extra time quarter-final, the referee initially penalised Leandro Paredes. VAR then stepped in for mistaken identity, the incident was rejudged as Embolo simulation, earning the Switzerland striker a second yellow and a red. FIFA said in a statement the dive was clear and should not punish an opponent, which could trigger a second caution or a suspension for an accumulation of cards.

Earlier, the laws body issued a circular narrowing when yellow cards can be reviewed, allowing checks only to confirm who committed the offence. The foul itself cannot be re-refereed or changed if it is not a second booking.

On that basis, IFAB judged the use of VAR in this case to be excessive and that Embolo should not have been sent off.

The governing body does not regard the referee or the VAR at fault and maintains the decision corrected the situation. The interpretation has been accepted as valid by IFAB and will feature in discussions on revising the VAR protocol.

Source: L'Équipe