In a video released by The Sun, former Premier League referee Mark Halsey discussed the opening match of the FIFA World Cup—a game that saw three red cards and ended with Mexico's 2-0 victory over South Africa.
Halsey said: "Three red cards in the opening FIFA World Cup match is unheard of. The first red card was shown to Sisal for a terrible tackle, late, studs up, clearly a red card. Neither the player nor the bench had any complaints.
"Then came the second red card for a slap—this falls under violent conduct, a direct red card. VAR intervened, which was absolutely correct. Did you see that South African player's fist? Right in the opponent's face. The referee had no choice, leaving South Africa with only 9 players.
"The third red card was also for a bad tackle. It was high and extremely dangerous, so the referee had no choice but to send him off.
"After the red cards, Mexico controlled the game and led 2-0. They deserved the win. But three red cards in the opening FIFA World Cup match? This is absolute chaos, and the referee struggled to maintain order on the field.
"South Africa's prospects for this tournament are in jeopardy. Being reduced to 9 players in the first match is a nightmare start."