VAR at centre of debate as South Africa's Themba Zwane shown 'extremely harsh' red card in 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against Mexico

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There were more red cards than goals in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as co-hosts Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 - and, once again, VAR was at the centre of controversy.

'Absolutely not!' - Mexico boss Aguirre bristles at 'clueless' jibe in post-match press conference

Video credit: SNTV

Julian Quinones needed just nine minutes to score the tournament’s first goal at a packed Azteca Stadium.

Veteran striker Raul Jimenez, who has agreed a two‑year deal to join Championship side Wolverhampton Wanderers, sealed the victory with his first World Cup goal in the 67th minute.

It was a night to forget for Bafana Bafana, who finished with nine men following the dismissals of Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane. Mexico defender Cesar Montes was also sent off in stoppage time.

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But it was the straight red shown to Zwane in the 84th minute that caused the biggest stir.

The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder grappled with Roberto Alvarado, coming around the back of his opponent with his left arm and making contact with Alvarado's face.

After being called to the pitchside monitor by the Video Assistant Referee, Brazilian official Wilton Sampaio produced a red card - a decision ITV co‑commentator Ally McCoist described as ”extremely harsh”.

South Africa manager Hugo Broos was equally unimpressed.

He said: "The first red card, I don't think we have to say something about it but the second red card I think the Mexican player blocked my player, that happens, the referee decides something else so it is a little bit [a] pity that we have to finish this game with nine players."

It is only the seventh time in World Cup history that a match has seen three or more red cards - but the first time it has happened in an opening game. For context, the entire 2022 tournament saw just four dismissals.

Montes' late red card also sparked debate after he was adjudged to have denied Khuliso Mudau a clear goalscoring opportunity.

However, goalscorer and player of the match Quinones did not complain, saying: "There were some mistakes that were very costly. Being sent off is something you can avoid."

The forward also praised 35‑year‑old Jimenez, who is appearing at his fourth World Cup and was visibly emotional after scoring.

"We really congratulated him because he gives a lot to the team. Being part of a team is our pride and it's wonderful he continues to add goals to his career as a player in our national team."

Victory for Mexico means a point from their next two games - against South Korea on Friday, June 19, and Czechia on Thursday, June 25 - will likely see them through.

South Africa, however, will be without their two suspended players for next Thursday's game against Czechia and now face an uphill battle to make it to the last 32.

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