Switzerland head coach Murat Yakin has strongly criticized the referee and VAR following his side’s defeat to Argentina, insisting that Breel Embolo’s red card unfairly changed the course of the match.
Speaking after the game, Yakin described the decision as a major officiating error, arguing that there was no justification for sending the Swiss forward off.
“We were punished because of a mistake. There was no reason for that red card. I don’t understand it,” Yakin said.
The Swiss manager maintained that the incident was accidental and lacked any malicious intent.
“It was an innocent situation; there was nothing malicious about it. The refereeing error punished us and completely disrupted our game plan,” he added.
Yakin also questioned the role of VAR in upholding the decision.
“That decision was simply unbelievable. I completely disagree with it. There was clear contact, and I don’t understand how the referee and the VAR came to that conclusion.”
Despite his frustration, the 51-year-old denied suggesting Argentina received preferential treatment.
“I wouldn’t say they were being favored. We had a fair and open match. Both teams played football. Football wasn’t the winner today. We were punished by a mistake, not on our side.”
Yakin concluded by admitting that the controversial decision proved decisive in the outcome of the match while congratulating Argentina on their victory.
“It was a decisive moment that determined the outcome of the match. We can complain now—but I congratulate Argentina.”
