Three red cards - are referees getting tough at this World Cup?
Summary
In the opening game of the 2026 World Cup, three players received red cards as Mexico beat South Africa 2-0. This is unusual because recent World Cups had very few red cards, but stricter refereeing rules introduced in 2017 may be changing how referees handle fouls and player behavior.Key Facts
- Three players were sent off in one game for the first time in 20 years at a World Cup.
- South Africa’s Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane, and Mexico’s Cesar Montes received red cards.
- The 2018 and 2022 World Cups only had four red cards total, showing fewer dismissals recently.
- Pierluigi Collina became FIFA’s head of referees in 2017 and introduced rules focusing on fairness and proper player behavior.
- Referees now rarely give red cards for denying goalscoring opportunities if a penalty is awarded.
- Zwane’s red card was given after a video review for violent conduct, but it was a controversial call.
- Collina’s rules also penalize players for actions like covering their mouths during arguments or protesting decisions.
- The 2026 World Cup may see more red cards if referees continue enforcing these stricter rules.
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