Mexico’s 2-0 victory over South Africa featured three red cards—the most in a World Cup match in 20 years—as discipline collapsed in an unusually feisty tournament opener.
Referees sent off South Africa’s Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane along with Mexico’s Cesar Montes for violent conduct and dangerous tackles in separate flashpoints.
Video review officials intervened multiple times, slowing tempo but underscoring the match’s volatility on football’s biggest stage.
FIFA’s disciplinary committee is expected to assess additional suspensions before both teams’ next group fixtures, potentially reshaping rotation plans for coaches.
The tournament features 48 teams competing across 16 host cities in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
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Sources:
https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/49038092/world-cup-2026-today-blog-12-06-2026-live-updates-news-fixtures-schedule-results-mexico-south-korea