Three red cards in World Cup opening game – why were South Africa and Mexico players sent off?

In the 84th minute, Themba Zwane became involved in a tussle with Roberto Alvarado as Mexico attacked down the left flank. Zwane appeared to swing his left arm into Alvarado’s face, sending the Mexican midfielder to the ground clutching his head. Following a review prompted by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), Sampaio consulted the pitchside monitor before dismissing Zwane for violent conduct.