Three red cards at kick-off: 2026 World Cup opener makes history

Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio set a historic record during the 2026 World Cup opening match, sending off three players during Mexico’s 2-0 victory over South Africa on Thursday in Mexico City. No World Cup opener had ever seen so many expulsions.

The first red card came in the 49th minute. South African midfielder Yaya Sithole, positioned as last defender, brought down an opponent running toward goal and left the field without protest.

South Africa then lost a second player in the 84th minute. Themba Zwane was sent off after VAR confirmed an elbow to the face of a Mexican player. Again, the decision was accepted without complaint.

The third red, the most debated of the evening, involved Mexican captain César Montes. In a last-defender position, he brought down a South African striker who was moving toward the right side of the penalty area. The expulsion, validated by VAR, was also accepted.

With three expulsions in a single opening match, Sampaio’s name enters the annals of the competition. The previous record had never come close during a World Cup opener. Despite South Africa’s numerical disadvantage from the second half onward, Mexico managed their advantage to secure a 2-0 victory and begin the tournament with a home win.