Refereeing Under Discussion
Graphics: Agamir Somoy
FIFA has introduced several rule changes in this World Cup, including the “mistaken identity” rule, which allows referees to change disciplinary decisions after reviewing VAR. This rule was applied for the first time in the tournament during the United States vs Paraguay match.
United States defender Tim Ream, 38, was initially shown a yellow card after fouling Miguel Almirón of Paraguay, with the referee also awarding a free-kick.
After the free-kick was taken, Dutch referee Danny Makkelie was asked by VAR to check the pitchside monitor. Following the review, he overturned his initial decision-rescinding Ream’s yellow card and instead booking Almirón for simulation.
It marked the first time such a reversal of identity-based disciplinary action has taken place in a World Cup match.
Meanwhile, controversy also surrounded the Canada vs Bosnia and Herzegovina match, where no red card was shown following a disputed incident. Bosnia goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj collided with Canadian striker Tani Oluwaseyi inside the penalty box while attempting to stop an attack.
Although the referee treated it as a normal foul, former England striker Wayne Rooney argued that it should have been a clear red card offence.