'Unacceptable': SUI Coach Blasts VAR After Embolo Red Card; Hints At ARG Bias

Last Updated:July 12, 2026, 13:37 IST

Murat Yakin blasted VAR after Breel Embolo's controversial red card in Switzerland's 3-1 World Cup quarter-final defeat to Argentina, calling the decision "unacceptable."

Switzerland head coach Murat Yakin launched a scathing attack on VAR after his side’s 3-1 extra-time defeat to Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals, insisting Breel Embolo’s controversial red card “destroyed" the match.

Switzerland looked on course for a famous upset after recovering from Alexis Mac Allister’s early opener through Dan Ndoye’s well-taken equaliser in the 67th minute. Yakin’s side had seized momentum and were asking all the questions of the defending champions.

But the contest turned five minutes later.

Referee João Pinheiro initially booked Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes following an incident involving Embolo. However, after a lengthy VAR review, the decision was overturned, Paredes’ booking was rescinded, and Embolo was instead shown a second yellow card for simulation, reducing Switzerland to 10 men.

Yakin was left furious.

“There was definitely no reason to award a yellow card," he said.

“It was a harmless situation. He should have let play continue.

“We were punished because of a rule that is unacceptable. I don’t understand it. The fact that they intervened unnecessarily is extremely hurtful.

“It’s a rule that has nothing to do with football. It destroyed our game today. We have to accept it, but it is painful to lose that way."

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Switzerland frustrated Argentina deep into extra time before Julián Alvarez finally broke the deadlock in the 112th minute with a stunning strike into the top corner. Lautaro Martínez added a third in stoppage time to seal Argentina’s place in the semi-finals, where Lionel Scaloni’s side will face England.

Yakin refused to blame Embolo, who left the field in tears after his dismissal.

“He was fouled many times and had a few very good moments in this game, but then he couldn’t help the team any more," Yakin said.

“I don’t blame him. Obviously, he is shattered because he could not help the team. It was a refereeing mistake."

The Swiss coach instead praised his players for their spirited display.

“I would like to praise the entire team because we came back from a goal down against the world champions and had the momentum," he said.

“My boys are the real heroes."

Midfielder Remo Freuler also questioned the intervention, urging FIFA to explain the decision.

“I’m very proud of the team. You could tell that we gave 100 per cent," Freuler said.

“I don’t understand how VAR can make such a decision, and FIFA has to explain it to us."

The defeat ended Switzerland’s deepest World Cup run since 1954, leaving them one win short of reaching their first-ever World Cup semi-final.

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Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His...Read More

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