Ex-FIFA referee Hackett insists Zwane red card failed serious foul play criteria in Mexico's World Cup opener

Former FIFA and Premier League referee Keith Hackett has publicly challenged one of three controversial red cards shown during Mexico’s 2-0 victory over South Africa in the 2026 World Cup opener at Mexico City on Thursday, arguing that Themba Zwane’s dismissal did not meet the threshold for serious foul play.

The match was already heading Mexico’s way when Yaya Sithole was sent off for denial of a goalscoring opportunity, with Raul Jimenez converting the resulting opportunity to double the lead after Julian Quinones had opened the scoring in the ninth minute. Zwane’s dismissal followed shortly after, with the referee initially leaving him on the pitch before a VAR review prompted a change of decision, citing serious foul play after the midfielder appeared to strike Roberto Alvarado with his arm.

Hackett, speaking to Football Insider, was unconvinced. “Whilst the red card issued might be deemed to be ‘soft’, the South African player used his hand/arm in an illegal manner, opening up the VAR intervention,” he said. “My view is that this red card did not meet the criteria for serious foul play. At most, the action was reckless, and a yellow card would have been appropriate.”

Mexico were not spared the controversy entirely. Cesar Montes was himself dismissed in stoppage time, meaning the match ended with three red cards — a turbulent start to the tournament.

Hackett had already been vocal about refereeing matters at this World Cup before a ball was kicked. Somalian official Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States ahead of the tournament, and Hackett called on FIFA to compensate him in full. “This appears to be so unfair, depriving a young referee of the opportunity to officiate at a World Cup,” he said. “Referees expected to earn in the region of $100,000 (£74,630). So, I hope that FIFA, who have failed in supporting his case, will make a discretionary payment of $100,000 to him and his family.”

The refereeing spotlight will remain intense as the tournament progresses, with Group B and Group D fixtures scheduled for Friday.