The first review, requested by VAR officials to assess a potential red card in the closing minutes of the opening match, marked the implementation of the new rules approved last February by the IFAB (International Football Association Board), which will take effect at the start of the 2026 World Cup.
It was the incident in which South African Themba Zwane struck Roberto Alvarado with his hand during a scuffle outside the penalty area. Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio showed a red card after reviewing the play and explaining the incident and his decision over his microphone on the field.
Sampaio marks a turning point with VAR
The novelty was the commentary directed at the spectators, which is already common in some leagues.
Sampaio addressed the fans and informed them of the decision.
In a match that was neither particularly tense nor heated, three players were sent off.
Two of the visitors and one from Mexico, although only the latter was worth checking on the monitor.
South Africa was down to nine men because earlier, at the start of the second half of the match played at Azteca Stadium, in the 50th minute, a foul by Yaya Sithole on the edge of the box against Mexico’s Brian Gutiérrez, who was heading toward the visitors’ goal unmarked, resulted in the South African defender’s ejection.
There was no debate; the call was clear, and the referee didn’t even have to consult VAR at the start of the 2026 World Cup.
Then came Themba Zwane’s goal, and in stoppage time, Mexico conceded a goal by César Montes that also went unchallenged.
New regulations
QuéOnnda.com
FIFA Declares War on Time-Wasting
These were the only instances in which the referee took center stage at the start of the World Cup.
Several new features are planned for this version, designed to speed up the game and prevent players from covering their mouths when facing an opponent.
Speeding up the game and minimizing interruptions are among the disciplinary measures that will be implemented during the World Cup.
In fact, the referee started the count every time play had to be restarted due to a throw-in, a corner kick, or a goal kick, holding up his hand with each finger representing one second.
The thing is, players have only five seconds for each serve and ten seconds for substitutions.
As for other issues—such as medical treatment, confrontations while wearing face masks, or VAR reviews of cards or corner kicks, which are now also subject to review—none of these occurred at the start of the 2026 World Cup.
With information from EFE
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com