There were compelling reasons for the dismissals in Mexico vs South Africa, says The Athletic's refereeing expert Graham Scott

Get ready for the biggest match in South African football history as Bafana Bafana faces co-hosts Mexico in the opening match of the 2026 Fifa World Cup. Follow our live updates for expert analysis and breaking news!

Nine-man Bafana Bafana found themselves on the wrong side of history after a fiery 2-0 opening-day loss to Mexico shattered 32-year discipline records.

Mexico's win over South Africa on Thursday broke a record many may have not seen coming as the glass ceiling for red cards in a World Cup opener was smashed.

For the tournament, we are taking a look at the major incidents to examine and explain the process in terms of both VAR protocol and the laws of the game.

Wilton Sampaio officiated Mexico's 2-0 victory over South Africa and brandished three red cards in a chaotic, fiery encounter that quickly became one of the most talked-about openers in FIFA World Cup history.

Red card punishment explained as opening game is overshadowed - History was made in tournament opener - but for all the wrong reasons