Three Red Cards Shown in Opening Game of the World Cup

Referee Wilton Pereira Sampaio showed three red cards in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup at the Mexico City Stadium, with South Africa’s Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane, along with Mexico’s Cesar Montes, all sent off in a dramatic start to the tournament.

The incident-packed game quickly became notable for disciplinary action rather than just the football itself, as the official dismissed two South African players and one Mexico defender during the match. The BBC Sport video report highlighted the unusual nature of the opening fixture, which produced three red cards in a single game.

Wilton Pereira Sampaio issues three dismissals

Sampaio was at the centre of attention after showing red cards to Sithole and Zwane for South Africa, before also sending off Montes for Mexico. The decisions shaped the tone of the contest and ensured the World Cup began with a major talking point.

Opening matches at major tournaments often set the tone for the weeks ahead, but this one stood out for its disciplinary drama. With three players dismissed, the game immediately drew attention for the referee’s decisions and the tense atmosphere on the pitch.

World Cup opener delivers early controversy

The match took place at the Mexico City Stadium, where the 2026 World Cup got under way with a highly unusual sequence of events. Red cards are always significant in international football, but three in one opening game is a rare and striking occurrence.

BBC Sport noted that the content was available to UK users only, but the key moment was clear: the opening fixture of the tournament was defined by the dismissals of Sithole, Zwane and Montes. The result was a World Cup opener that immediately generated headlines for all the wrong reasons.

With the tournament just beginning, the three red cards ensured the first match will be remembered for its controversy as much as its football.