13.07.2026 17:00
Argentina's star player Leandro Paredes spoke about the incident in which Swiss footballer Breel Embolo received a red card. Paredes stated that the Swiss player was faking it and said the referee's decision was correct.
FIFA 2026 World Cup quarter-final match, where Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 to advance to the semi-finals, was marked by a red card incident and the subsequent statements. Argentina's experienced midfielder Leandro Paredes spoke very clearly about the controversial position in which Swiss striker Breel Embolo was sent off.
SWITZERLAND RECEIVED A RED CARD AFTER VAR INTERVENTION
In the 72nd minute of the match, referee Joao Pinheiro initially ruled that Leandro Paredes had fouled Embolo, showing a yellow card to the Argentine player. However, after a warning from the VAR room, the Portuguese referee reviewed the position on the monitor and reversed his decision. Pinheiro canceled the yellow card given to Paredes and instead showed a yellow card to Swiss striker Breel Embolo for attempting to deceive the referee. This card was Embolo's second yellow of the match, leaving Switzerland with 10 men on the field.
"THERE IS NOTHING TO DISCUSS"
Argentine footballer Leandro Paredes commented on the incident, arguing that the situation was clear and targeting Embolo. Paredes stated, "I don't see anything to discuss. The rules are extremely clear. The opposing player was clearly faking it there; I didn't touch him at all. The referee's decision after the VAR review was completely correct. He paid the price for his deceit."