Top News

8

The FIFA World Cup quarter-final between Argentina and Switzerland had a dramatic second half. The defending champions, led by Lionel Messi, secured an early lead through Alexis Mac Allister’s goal on ten minutes into the game. A few minutes after Dan Ndoye’s equaliser gave the Swiss hope of a comeback, Breel Embolo left the field in tears after being shown a red card, leaving his team with ten men at a crucial time. It, however, was not a straightforward decision. Embolo, who was already on a yellow, earned a foul after an apparent knock from Leandro Paredes that left him on the ground. The Argentine was initially booked, but the VAR intervened.

Breel Embolo Red Card vs Argentina: What exactly happened?

The replay showed that Paredes had hardly any contact with Embolo. The on-field referee reviewed the incident on the pitchside monitor and dismissed Paredes’ yellow under the “mistaken identity” provision, meaning he showed the card to the wrong player.

The decision was overturned after the VAR check, and Embolo got his second yellow for simulation. The Switzerland forward was left devastated after being sent off. He cried inconsolably at the touchline before leaving the play area. Embolo took his first yellow for a loose foul in the first half.

Despite losing one of their key players, Switzerland firmly held their defence and ended the 90-minute play at 1-1, forcing 30 minutes of extra time.

Argentina vs Switzerland: How did Lionel Messi fare in World Cup quarter-final?

The La Albiceleste captain has been involved in most of his team’s goals at this FIFA World Cup. Having struck the net eight times, Messi leads the Golden Boot race alongside French superstar Kylian Mbappe. He was unable to score in the 90 minutes against Switzerland, but assisted Alexis Mac Allister for the opener that put Argentina ahead.

It marked the second assist of the tournament for Messi, who surpassed country great Diego Maradona for the all-time assist record at the World Cup earlier in this edition.