World Cup Red Card Row: Ex-FIFA Ref Slams VAR Decision

The opening match of the 2026 World Cup has already descended into farce, with former Premier League and FIFA referee Keith Hackett leading the charge against the standard of officiating that marred Mexico's 2-0 victory over South Africa in Mexico City on Thursday evening.

Three red cards were brandished in a chaotic curtain raiser that will do little to reassure traditionalists about the direction of the modern game. For British observers accustomed to the rigours of Premier League officiating, the spectacle offered a troubling glimpse into the inconsistent application of VAR at the highest level.

Zwane Dismissal 'Did Not Meet Criteria'

The most contentious decision centred on South Africa's Themba Zwane, who was sent off for what was deemed