Switzerland head coach Murat Yakin launched a fierce critique of the VAR protocol following his team's 3-1 extra-time loss to defending champions Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals, calling the decision to send off striker Breel Embolo "unacceptable" and stating it "destroyed" their game, as reported by Reuters.
Controversial red card changes the match
Switzerland had fought back impressively after Alexis Mac Allister's early opener, with Dan Ndoye equalizing in the 67th minute. However, just five minutes later, Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation after a lengthy VAR review. Initially, the referee had booked Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes but overturned the decision and instead cautioned Embolo, reducing Switzerland to 10 men for the remainder of the contest.
"There was definitely no reason to award a yellow card," Yakin said. "It was a harmless situation. He should have let the play continue."
Coach's strong words on VAR rule
Yakin did not hold back in his criticism of the VAR intervention. "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," he added.
Switzerland's valiant effort falls short
Despite being a man down, Switzerland frustrated Argentina deep into extra time before Julian Alvarez scored a stunning long-range strike in the 112th minute to put the defending champions ahead. Lautaro Martinez then sealed the victory with a late third goal, sending Lionel Scaloni's side into a semifinal against England.
Yakin believed his players had seized control before the dismissal. "I would like to praise the entire team because we came back from a goal down against the world champions and we had the momentum," he said. "We were dominating and controlling the match, and then we were punished because of a rule that is unacceptable. I don't understand it. My boys are the real heroes."
Players echo frustration
Midfielder Remo Freuler also questioned the decision, calling for an explanation from FIFA. "I'm very proud of the team. You could tell that we gave 100%," Freuler said. "I don't understand how VAR can make such a decision, and FIFA has to explain it to us."
An emotional Embolo was left in tears after his dismissal and was consoled by teammates as he walked off the pitch. Yakin defended his striker, insisting he bore no responsibility for the defeat. "He was fouled many times, and he 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."
Historic campaign ends in heartbreak
Although Switzerland fell short of a historic semifinal berth, Yakin took pride in a campaign that saw his side reach the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 1954. The team's resilience and performance against the world champions showcased their growth on the global stage, but the controversial VAR decision overshadowed their achievement.
