Dhaka, Oct. 17 -- Football's familiar yellow and red cards have received a digital makeover in Uruguay, where a referee has tested an electronic alternative during a competitive match.

Referee Eduardo Varela used a smartphone-sized device instead of traditional cards during Thursday's Copa Uruguay match between Nacional and Rentistas, which Nacional won 3-0.

The device has two buttons that turn its screen yellow or red, allowing referees to display cautions and dismissals while recording disciplinary decisions electronically.

Rentistas player Juan Pablo Plada became the first player to receive a digital yellow card when Varela booked him in the 12th minute.

Developed by private company REFe, the technology is designed to reduce paperw...