Switzerland forward Breel Embolo became the first player to be sent off under football's new mistaken identity law during his side's World Cup quarter-final defeat to Argentina.
Already on a yellow card, Embolo was initially awarded a free-kick after appearing to be fouled by Argentina's Leandro Paredes. However, following a VAR review, referee João Pinheiro overturned the decision, ruled that Embolo had simulated the challenge and instead issued him a second yellow card, resulting in his dismissal.
The 29-year-old left the pitch in tears just minutes after Switzerland had equalised against the defending champions.
Swiss head coach Murat Yakin criticised the decision, describing the law as "unacceptable" and insisting the incident should never have warranted VAR intervention.
“It destroyed our game. We have to accept it, but it is painful to lose that way,” Yakin said.
Pundits, however, were less sympathetic, arguing Embolo's simulation ultimately cost Switzerland a place in the semi-finals.
Argentina capitalised on their numerical advantage, scoring twice in extra time to seal a 3-1 victory and book a semi-final clash with England.
