What is 'mistaken identity?' Understanding World Cup term in Argentina vs. Switzerland

The second half of the World Cup quarterfinal match between Argentina and Switzerland is heating up.

Breel Embolo was given a yellow card for diving during a play against Argentina’s Leandro Paredes on Saturday, July 11.

This was Embolo’s second yellow card of the match, which is the equivalent of a red card, and he was ejected.

The yellow card was initially given to Paredes, but upon VAR review, officials determined that Embolo committed simulation. They rescinded Paredes’ yellow card and handed the foul to the Swiss player.

“Mistaken identity” is when officials assign a yellow or red card to the wrong player in a match. The official can then go to VAR for a video review to determine if they made the correct call. If it is determined that the foul was given to the wrong player, then it is called “mistaken identity.”

In the Argentina-Switzerland match, the officials thought Paredes committed a penalty by causing Embolo to fall. That is why he was initially handed a yellow card. However, upon video review, it was shown that there was no contact between the two players and Embolo was handed the yellow card for simulation.