First red card of the 2026 World Cup! South African defensive midfielder makes a costly mistake after an early blunder, the first in 32 years

The 2026 World Cup opener, Group A's first round, saw Mexico, the first of the three co-hosts to play, host South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. At the 49th minute, South African holding midfielder Sisole fouled Gutierrez during a defensive recovery, receiving a straight red card, which was the tournament's first dismissal.

Notably, Quinones' first-half goal also came from a turnover by Sisole. He became the first player sent off in a World Cup opening match since Marco Etcheverry in 1994.