The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off with a bang, but not without drama. From a fan festival evacuation to violent clashes, here are nine things you might have missed overnight.
South Korea Comeback Victory
South Korea staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the Czech Republic 2-1 at Estadio Guadalajara. After Ladislav Krejci opened the scoring, Hwang In-Beom equalized with a moment of magic. Substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu then scored the winner 10 minutes from time.
FIFA Fan Festival Toronto Evacuated
The opening day of the FIFA Fan Festival in Toronto was cut short after just one hour due to severe weather. Heavy rain and a thunderstorm warning forced organizers to evacuate the event for safety reasons.
Fan Zone Overcrowding in Houston
In Houston, fans were turned away from the fan zone due to overcrowding concerns. Temperatures in the Texas city reached a sweltering 93 degrees Fahrenheit.
Mexico Wins Opening Game
Mexico ended their opening game curse with a 2-0 victory over South Africa at the Azteca Stadium. Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez scored the goals, delighting the home crowd after a star-studded opening ceremony featuring Shakira and Burna Boy.
Unwanted Red Card History
The opening match set an unwanted record with three red cards, the most ever shown in a World Cup opener. South Africa's Yaya Sithole was sent off for denying a goalscoring opportunity, and Themba Zwane was dismissed for a slap. Mexico's Cesar Montes also received a red card for a late foul.
VAR Drama
Themba Zwane's red card came after VAR intervened to review an off-the-ball incident where he slapped Roberto Alvarado. Referee consulted the pitchside monitor before sending Zwane off for violent conduct.
Violent Clashes Outside Azteca Stadium
Before the match, violent clashes erupted outside the Azteca Stadium. Hooded protesters threw petrol bombs, rocks, bins, bananas, and plant pots at riot police. A female officer required emergency treatment for a head wound.
Official Response
A spokesperson for the secretary of citizen security in Mexico stated: “Nearly 200 hooded individuals broke away from two groups of around 800 protesters, but the situation was brought under control by the Metropolitan police.”
England Supporters Warned
Reece James advised England fans to expect weather delays after their match against Costa Rica was postponed by one hour due to a thunderstorm. He said: “Embracing it is part of that. As I said, it's the same for both teams. It's not just for us, we're preparing the best we can.”
