By Chiemeka Ugwowo
World Cup Shock: Red Cards Rain on Opening Game!
Mexico 🇲🇽 kicked off the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-0 win over South Africa 🇿🇦, but the headlines weren’t about goals—they were about RED CARDS!
Julian Quinones opened scoring in the 9th minute, and Raul Jiminez sealed it in the 67th. But the drama? Three straight reds! Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane saw red early, and Cesar Montes joined the party late for Mexico. That’s a record-setting start to the tournament!
Mexico dominated with 61% possession and four shots on target, punishing South Africa for sloppy passes. South Africa tried, but 39% possession and just two shots on target wasn’t enough.
Next up, Mexico faces South Korea on 19 June, then Czechia on 25 June. South Africa will battle Czechia on 18 June, then wrap up against South Korea. Meanwhile, Czechia cruised past South Korea 2-0, sitting second in the table.
