Three Red Cards in World Cup Opener: Mexico Beats South Africa 2-0

Referee Wilton Pereira Sampaio showed three red cards in the 2026 World Cup opener, sending off South Africa's Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane, and Mexico's Cesar Montes, in a fiery match at Mexico City Stadium.

The 2026 World Cup kicked off with a bang at Mexico City Stadium as hosts Mexico faced South Africa in a match that will be remembered for its unprecedented number of red cards. Referee Wilton Pereira Sampaio from Brazil became the center of attention, issuing three red cards, a record for a World Cup opening match. The first red card came in the 23rd minute when South African midfielder Yaya Sithole lunged into a dangerous tackle on a Mexican player. Sampaio immediately pulled out the red card, leaving South Africa with ten men. Despite the setback, South Africa defended resolutely, preventing Mexico from scoring early. South Africa's woes deepened in the 41st minute when forward Themba Zwane was sent off for a reckless challenge, reducing the team to nine players. Mexico capitalized on the numerical advantage just before halftime, with Raul Jimenez heading in a cross to make it 1-0. In the second half, Mexico continued to press but struggled to convert chances. In the 67th minute, Mexican defender Cesar Montes received a second yellow card for handball, leaving both teams with nine and ten players respectively. Despite being a man down, Mexico maintained control. Mexico doubled their lead in the 78th minute through a swift counterattack finished by Hirving Lozano. South Africa pushed forward in the final minutes but could not find the net. The match ended 2-0 in favor of Mexico. The three red cards sparked debate about the referee's strictness. FIFA later backed Sampaio's decisions. South Africa's coach criticized the red cards as too harsh, while Mexico's coach praised his team's composure. The opener set a fiery tone for the tournament, with Mexico gaining an early advantage in Group A and South Africa facing an uphill battle to advance.

Three Red Cards in World Cup Opener: Mexico Beats South Africa 2-0

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