The FIFA World Cup 2026 introduced a landmark VAR ruling during USA's opening Group D match against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles — and it changed the course of the game in the 55th minute.

What is the 'mistaken identity' rule?

The 'mistaken identity' rule allows a referee to reverse a yellow card after a VAR review reveals that a player deceived the official into making an incorrect decision. In short, when a player simulates contact and tricks the referee into booking the wrong person, the card can be transferred to the guilty party.

Dutch referee Danny Makkelie was initially fooled when Paraguay's Miguel Almiron appeared to be on the receiving end of a heavy challenge from USA captain Tim Ream. Makkelie showed Ream a yellow card for what looked like a reckless challenge with no contact on the ball.

VAR intervened, prompting Makkelie to review the incident on the pitchside monitor. After deliberation, the referee determined that Almiron had simulated the contact entirely. Ream's yellow card was wiped, and Almiron received the booking instead — marking the first time the 'mistaken identity' rule had ever been applied at a FIFA World Cup.

USA cruise to opening win

The VAR ruling came as the USA were already well in control. Folarin Balogun struck twice, while a Paraguay own goal — credited to Damien Bobadilla — opened the scoring following a dribble from Christian Pulisic, who weaved past several defenders down the left flank.

Paraguay managed to pull one back through Mauricio, set up by Julio Enciso in the 73rd minute, but Giovanni Reyna delivered the final blow with a stunning trivela finish deep into stoppage time at 97'.

The USMNT held Paraguay to zero big chances in the opening 70 minutes, with the co-hosts creating four of their own in front of a packed, largely partisan crowd at SoFi Stadium.

USA now turn their attention to their next Group D fixture against Australia on June 19, with qualification for the knockout rounds firmly in their sights.