The 2026 FIFA World Cup began at the Estadio Azteca on Thursday, as Mexico gave their fans plenty of reason to cheer with a 2-0 win against South Africa, in an opening game marred by poor discipline,

Nine-man Bafana Bafana found themselves on the wrong side of history after a fiery 2-0 opening-day loss to Mexico shattered 32-year discipline records.

Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio became an unlikely star of the FIFA World Cup 2026 opener after issuing three red cards during Mexico’s 2-0 victory over South Africa at the Estadio Azteca.

Three red cards in World Cup opening game - why were South Africa and Mexico players sent off? - A record-breaking number of red cards put a controversial spin on the opening game

Three players were sent off in the World Cup opener as Mexico beat South Africa 2-0. Are we about to see a World Cup littered with red cards?

Mexico's national football team secured a significant 2-0 victory over South Africa in their World Cup opening match at the Azteca Stadium. Midfielder Erik Lira expressed confidence, stating 'the sky is the limit' for the team,