IFAB Clarifies Mistaken Identity Clause Does Not Apply to Diving; Embolo's Second Yellow Card Ruled Incorrect

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has clarified that the 'Mistaken Identity' clause in VAR protocol cannot be used to penalize simulation (diving). The clause only applies to correcting which player committed a foul, not to changing the nature of the foul itself. This clarification retroactively affects two controversial World Cup incidents: in the group stage, USA vs Paraguay, where Tim Ream's yellow card was overturned and Miguel Almirón was booked for simulation; and in the quarterfinal between Argentina and Switzerland, where Breel Embolo was sent off for a second yellow card after VAR recommended a review for simulation. IFAB stated that while the use of the clause for simulation was 'well received,' it should not be used for such purposes again until a comprehensive review of the VAR protocol is completed. The ruling means Embolo's red card was incorrect.