Mexico emerged victorious against South Africa with a 2-0 win in the opening match of the World Cup on Thursday evening, June 11, 2026. The match, held at the Estadio Azteca, drew over 80,000 spectators who witnessed a historic event as three players were sent off with red cards, a record for a World Cup opener.

Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio officiated the game, which saw its first red card in the 49th minute when Yaya Sithole of South Africa was penalized for a last-defender foul. The intensity continued to escalate. Themba Zwane, also from South Africa, received the second red card in the 84th minute following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review that confirmed he hit an opponent.

Mexico's Cesar Montes received the third red card during stoppage time, in the 90+2 minute, for blocking a clear goal-scoring opportunity. This series of expulsions set a new record, surpassing the previous maximum of two red cards in a World Cup opening match, which occurred back in 1990.

The match's disciplinary actions were notable, especially considering that only four red cards were issued throughout the entire 2022 World Cup. Unprecedented chaos. The last time such a significant number of red cards was seen was during the infamous 2006 "Battle of Nuremberg," which had two players from each team sent off.

This unprecedented opening match sets a dramatic tone for the tournament, emphasizing the high stakes and intense competition of the World Cup.