Switzerland coach laments 'incomprehensible' rule after World Cup exit

Switzerland's World Cup aspirations were dashed as they fell 3-1 to Argentina in extra time during a quarter-final match that coach Murat Yakin described as the most important in the team's history. The defeat marked the end of their tournament run, leaving the team and its supporters disappointed.

Coach Yakin voiced strong criticism following the match, stating, "Unfortunately, football did not win today." He specifically lamented a rule that he found incomprehensible, which he believed unfairly penalized his team. The controversial moment occurred around the 72nd minute, significantly altering the game's trajectory.

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Unfortunately, football did not win today.

The incident involved Swiss forward Breel Embolo and Argentinian player Leandro Paredes. After a physical challenge, Paredes received a yellow card. However, the video assistant referee (VAR) intervened, prompting the referee to review the play. The review focused on Embolo, who had fallen after the challenge. Despite initial perceptions, the VAR review led to Embolo being shown a yellow card for simulation, his second of the match, resulting in his expulsion from the game. Yakin felt this decision was particularly harsh, especially given the context of the game and the initial foul call.

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We are punished for a rule that is absolutely incomprehensible to me.