The incident reportedly came at 72 minutes, shortly after Switzerland had levelled at 1-1. Embolo went down following a challenge involving Leandro Paredes, who had initially been booked.
The report says the video team then told the referee that Paredes had not committed a foul. The on-field decision was changed, Embolo was cautioned for simulation, and the forward was sent off after receiving a second yellow card.
For Switzerland, the damage was immediate. The team lost a key attacking player in a knockout match and eventually fell in extra time, with Yakin arguing that the process had altered the contest.
The report says IFAB believes the VAR intervention did not fit the existing “mistaken identity” protocol. Its explanation was clear:
“só pode ser revisado para identificar o jogador que cometeu a infração punida; a infração em si não pode ser revisada/alterada,” the governing body said.
In practical terms, that protocol can correct the identity of a player shown a card, but it cannot be used to revisit whether the original foul or simulation decision was correct.
The clarification does not erase Switzerland’s grievance. Instead, it raises a broader question about how much authority VAR should have when an initial decision involves two connected judgements.
The report says IFAB is reviewing the protocol and could consider changes for future competitions. That process will be closely watched by players, coaches and referees alike.
The next major law review may determine whether the Embolo incident becomes an isolated mistake or a turning point in the debate over VAR’s limits.