The World Cup got underway with the kind of night that quickly reminded everyone just how special this tournament can be.
Mexico beat South Africa 2-0 at the Estadio Azteca, but the scoreline only told part of the story. There were two goals, three red cards and enough talking points to make the opener feel much bigger than a routine home win.
By full-time, fans had not only learned something about Mexico’s early momentum. They had also been given a first look at how this World Cup may actually feel.
What the World Cup opener taught fans immediately
The first lesson was that hydration breaks will take some getting used to. FIFA’s mandatory stoppages are there for player welfare, especially with summer heat expected across North America, but they still change the rhythm of matches.
Another clear lesson was that FIFA did get one thing right with substitutions. Players now have to leave the pitch quickly, with those who delay risking a one-minute wait before their replacement can enter. It is a blunt way to punish time-wasting, but it should keep games moving.
Estadio Azteca also reminded everyone why it remains one of football’s great global venues. The noise, colour and setting gave the opening game a spectacle worthy of the tournament.
Wilton Sampaio also showed he would not take any prisoners. The Brazilian referee issued three red cards, including two to South Africa and one to Mexico, proving he was not afraid to make big calls on the World Cup stage.
Then there was Raul Jimenez confirming his momentum in Mexico’s colors. After sealing a return to Wolves, the club where he reached his peak, he scored for his country for the second straight match, netting his first World Cup goal ever.
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