The World Cup’s opening match in Mexico City delivered a rare spectacle in international soccer. Three players were sent off with red cards at the Azteca Stadium. Such an event hasn’t occurred in a World Cup match since 2006, when Portugal and the Netherlands faced each other, leading to a record four red cards.
In the previous World Cup in Qatar in 2022, only four red cards were issued throughout the entire tournament. This time, the opening match saw South Africa’s Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane sent off, alongside César Montes from Mexico, the tournament co-host.
It marks the first instance of three players receiving red cards in the World Cup’s opening match. Unlike cases involving two yellow cards, all three received straight red cards. Mexico emerged victorious with a 2-0 win.
Sithole’s ejection occurred after he fouled Mexico’s Brian Gutierrez near the box in the second half. The situation worsened for South Africa when Zwane was sent off after a video review identified him striking Roberto Alvarado in the face during the 84th minute. In stoppage time, Montes also saw red for a foul on Khuliso Mudau.
As a result of these red cards, the three players will face suspension for at least one more match. South Africa is set to play against the Czech Republic next, while Mexico will meet South Korea in Guadalajara.
The 2006 match between Portugal and the Netherlands in Germany remains notable for its red card tally, with each team receiving two. Additionally, that game featured 16 yellow cards.