There were compelling reasons for the dismissals in Mexico vs South Africa, says The Athletic's refereeing expert Graham Scott

Nine-man Bafana Bafana found themselves on the wrong side of history after a fiery 2-0 opening-day loss to Mexico shattered 32-year discipline records.

Mexico's win over South Africa on Thursday broke a record many may have not seen coming as the glass ceiling for red cards in a World Cup opener was smashed.

For the tournament, we are taking a look at the major incidents to examine and explain the process in terms of both VAR protocol and the laws of the game.

Wilton Sampaio officiated Mexico's 2-0 victory over South Africa and brandished three red cards in a chaotic, fiery encounter that quickly became one of the most talked-about openers in FIFA World Cup history.

Red card punishment explained as opening game is overshadowed - History was made in tournament opener - but for all the wrong reasons

Three red cards in World Cup opening game - why were South Africa and Mexico players sent off? - A record-breaking number of red cards put a controversial spin on the opening game