In the second half of USA-Paraguay, Makkelie initially booked USA captain Tim Ream for fouling Almiron. Upon VAR review by Spanish referee Carlos del Cerro Grande, Makkelie realized Almiron had not been touched and reversed the caution, awarding it to Almiron for diving.
BBC sources told the broadcaster that Makkelie's decision was technically incorrect. The mistaken identity VAR rule, newly introduced for 2026, can only be used when 'the referee has clearly penalised the wrong player,' but 'the offence itself cannot be reviewed.' Diving correction does not fall within the rule's scope, according to the International Football Association Board.
Commentator Danny Murphy had praised the decision: 'Good spot and the right decision I may add. Any adaptation of the rules that means diving gets punished is good.' Fifa has yet to issue clarification on how the new mistaken identity power should apply, leaving referees uncertain about the rule's exact boundaries.
The ambiguity may affect how VAR decisions are made in future matches, particularly regarding contact-based fouls versus simulation claims.