Three red cards shown as Mexico beat South Africa in World Cup opener
Three players are sent off as World Cup co-hosts Mexico defeat South Africa in a dramatic opening match at a packed Azteca Stadium.
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Key People
Brian Gutierrez is a Mexican football player involved in a key foul leading to a red card.
Cesar Montes is a Mexican football player who received a red card in the World Cup opener.
César Montes is a Mexican soccer player who was shown a red card during the opening match of the World Cup.
Erik Lira is a Mexican soccer player known for his defensive skills.
Javier Aguirre is the head coach of the Mexican national soccer team.
Julian Quinones is a Mexican soccer player known for scoring goals in crucial matches.
Julián Quiñones is a winger for the Mexican national soccer team.
Khuliso Mudau is a South African soccer player who was fouled by César Montes, resulting in Montes' red card.
Raul Jimenez is a Mexican striker formerly with Wolves, currently in talks for a return to the club.
Roberto Alvarado is a Mexican professional soccer player playing as a forward.
Ronwen Williams is the South Africa goalkeeper who made several key saves.
A South African player who received a red card in the match.
Sphephelo Sithole is a South African football player who was sent off during the match against Mexico.
Themba Zwane is a South African player who was sent off during the match.
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All Coverage
Three players are sent off as World Cup co-hosts Mexico defeat South Africa in a dramatic opening match at a packed Azteca Stadium.
Three red cards made history for an opening World Cup game, but El Tri claimed all three points.
Thursday's 2026 World Cup opener between Mexico and South Africa made history with three players seeing red cards and being sent off.
After two goals and three red cards, Mexico and South Africa kicked off the 2026 FIFA World Cup with plenty of fireworks at Mexico City Stadium.
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