Three red cards shown in opening game of World Cup
Referee Wilton Pereira Sampaio shows red cards to South Africa's Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane as well as Mexico's Cesar Montes during the opening match of the 2026 World Cup at the Mexico City Stadium.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Key People
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.
Themba Zwane is a South African player who was sent off during the match.
Wilton Pereira Sampaio is a Brazilian referee known for officiating international football matches.
Yaya Sithole is a South African midfielder who made his World Cup debut in 2026.
All Coverage
Referee Wilton Pereira Sampaio shows red cards to South Africa's Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane as well as Mexico's Cesar Montes during the opening match of the 2026 World Cup at the Mexico City Stadium.
The opening match of the World Cup delivered a rarity in international soccer: three players sent off with red cards.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
Palmer signs new Chelsea contract until 2034
Cole Palmer signs a new Chelsea contract on improved terms until 2034, one of the longest active deals in the Premier League.
October 10, 2026 at 09:51 AMDelight for Scotland's Cuthbert after long summer of recovery
Erin Cuthbert expresses joy and relief at making her first appearance of the season in Scotland's impressive 2-0 win over Czech Republic.
October 10, 2026 at 08:28 AMRaphinha's brilliant Barcelona start interrupted by injury concerns
Raphinha will miss Barcelona's next two fixtures after returning from international break with an injury.
October 10, 2026 at 08:27 AMHow the trial of murdered Australian brothers and US friend unfolded
The mother of two Australian surfers murdered in Mexico two years ago with their American friend said "accountability matters".
October 10, 2026 at 06:04 AMWho am I? Plus today's other quizzes
Test your ball knowledge against today's Who Am I?, Five in Five and Brainteaser.
October 10, 2026 at 05:28 AMRenshaw century puts Australia on top against South Africa - scorecard
Latest scorecard from the first Test between South Africa and Australia in Durban.
October 10, 2026 at 12:00 AM