World Cup 2026: Red card punishment explained as opening game is overshadowed | OneFootball

History was made in tournament opener - but for all the wrong reasons

The World Cup is officially underway, though the tournament opener between Mexico and South Africa produced more red cards than goals.

Goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez ensured the host nation got off to a flying start, but the game will largely be remembered for the three red cards shown in the second half, Two of which were shown to South Africa players.

It was the seventh time there have been three or more red cards in a World Cup game, and the first time in an opener.

The first dismissal came when Sphephelo “Yaya” Sithole was shown a straight red card after bringing down Brian Gutiérrez on the edge of the penalty area. Referee Wilton Sampaio ruled that Sithole had denied a clear goalscoring opportunity.

Following a review prompted by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), Sampaio consulted the pitchside monitor before dismissing Zwane for violent conduct.

Marching orders: Themba Zwane

AFP via Getty Images

Then deep into stoppage time, Mexico were reduced to ten-men when defender Cesar Montes was sent off for bringing down Khuliso Mudau and denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.

For Sithole, Zwane and Montes, the opening game of the 2026 World Cup will be remembered for the wrong reasons and they must now serve a suspension each.

The South Africa pair will sit out the second group match against Czechia next Thursday - in a showdown where the loser may be eliminated from the tournament - while Montes cannot feature for Mexico against South Korea.

As per FIFA’s ruling, players shown a red card in the 2026 World Cup will receive a one-match suspension, though FIFA does hold the right to impose "further sanctions" if it deems it necessary.