The World Cup 2026 erupted into a storm of red cards and late drama as co-hosts Mexico overcame nine-man South Africa 2-0 in a chaotic opening match at a packed Azteca Stadium. Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio sent off three players – Yaya Sithole for denying a goalscoring opportunity, Themba Zwane for a slap, and Mexico's Cesar Montes for a late foul – in a game that will be remembered as much for its indiscipline as for the goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez. The tournament had begun with a star-studded opening ceremony featuring Shakira and Burna Boy, but the football quickly seized the narrative.
Across in Guadalajara, South Korea joined Mexico on three points at the top of Group A after rallying from a goal down to beat Czechia 2-1. The European side had taken the lead through Ladislav Krejci's fine header, but Hwang In-beom equalised with a curling right-footed shot before turning provider for substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu's winner 10 minutes from time. "Before the match I gave two messages: not give up until the end and unite as one," said South Korea coach Hong Byung-bo. "Whether on the pitch or not, we need to play as one team." Hong also defended captain Son Heung-min, who misfired in front of goal, saying: "Son is our best player and is also a very stable captain. We believe that Son did his best."
“Three red cards in Mexico's 2-0 win over South Africa and South Korea's comeback 2-1 victory over Czechia open Group A.”
Czechia, playing their first World Cup match for 20 years, were left to rue missed chances. Their 74-year-old head coach, Miroslav Koubek, became the oldest manager in World Cup history, surpassing South Africa's Hugo Broos. "We really made some mistakes but also made opportunities. Our opponent was very fast," he said. For South Africa, the tournament opener ended in numerical disadvantage and defeat, while Mexico's win finally ended their misery in World Cup opening games. The group now stands finely balanced, with both Mexico and South Korea on three points after a start that delivered drama and colour in equal measure.