Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 at the Estadio Azteca on Thursday in a historic World Cup opening match that saw three red cards issued by referee Wilton Sampaio.
Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez scored for Mexico on either side of a 49th-minute red card given to South Africa's Sphephelo Sithole, who became the first player dismissed in a World Cup opener in 32 years.
South African substitute Themba Zwane was also sent off in the 84th minute after a video assistant referee review by Nicolas Gallo exposed an off-the-ball violent conduct alteration with Mexico's Roberto Alvarado.
"The first red card, we have to accept it. The second we can discuss," said Hugo Broos, South Africa head coach.
Broos further disputed the second dismissal by noting that the Mexican opponent blocked his player and labeled the referee's decision as being a little bit soft.
Mexico captain Cesar Montes received the final red card during stoppage time for a professional foul on Khuliso Mudau, making this the first World Cup opening match in history to feature three ejections.
The physical match established a tournament record for opening day dismissals, surpassing the previous record of two red cards set during the 1990 opener between Cameroon and Argentina.
Despite the high number of ejections, the game registered only 23 total fouls, contrasting sharply with the 1986 World Cup match between Mexico and Paraguay which recorded 78 fouls.
Fan Celebrations Across Southern California
Southern California soccer fans gathered in large numbers to support the victory at various regional events, including the FIFA Fan Festival at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and Plaza Mexico in Lynwood.
"We're very happy that our team is here. We're going all the way to the finals," said Franklin Sanchez, Mexico fan from South L.
A.
Sanchez expressed his lifelong pride and dedication to supporting the Mexican national team despite being unable to attend the match at the stadium in Mexico City.
"Mexico '86, I also experienced that World Cup, so, I'm very excited," said Roberto Rojas, Compton resident and Mexico soccer fan.
Rojas added that his anticipation for the opening match prevented him from sleeping due to the emotional connection he feels toward the sport.
Mexico is co-hosting the expanded multi-national tournament alongside the United States and Canada, with more than 100 matches remaining in the competition schedule.
