In a first for the 2026 North American World Cup, a player misidentification was corrected using Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology.
On June 13, during the group stage match between the United States and Paraguay at the Los Angeles Stadium, VAR was applied for the first time to verify a case of player misidentification.
The incident occurred in the fifth minute of the second half, with the U.S. leading 3-0. Paraguay midfielder Miguel Almirón attempted to break through on the right side of the U.S. penalty area and fell after a challenge from U.S. defender Tim Ream. Referee Danny Makkelie issued a yellow card to Ream, believing he had committed a foul.
However, after receiving a recommendation from the VAR team, Makkelie paused the game to conduct an on-field review (OFR).
The review confirmed that there was no contact between Ream and Almirón. Consequently, Makkelie rescinded the yellow card issued to Ream and instead issued a yellow card to Almirón for simulation.
This decision marked the first practical application of the expanded VAR regulations in the North American World Cup.
Previously, VAR was limited to reviewing goals, offside calls, penalty kicks, direct red cards, and instances where the referee missed a foul.
However, the regulations have now been broadened to allow VAR to rectify cases of player misidentification for yellow cards or dismissals. Additionally, VAR will now assist in correcting clear corner kick errors and determining second yellow card dismissals, enhancing the accuracy of officiating.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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