Why South Africa got a 2nd red card to go down to 9 men after Themba Zwane VAR review

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It took a trip to VAR to find the action that sent Themba Zwane off the pitch.

But after review, South Africa's veteran midfielder received a red card late in the second half on Thursday against Mexico.

He was the second South African player sent off.

For the final five-plus minutes, South Africa was reduced to nine men.

Mexico was already up 2-0, and the day got worse for South Africa.

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Why did Themba Zwane get a red card to take South Africa down to 9 men?

Zwane, away from the ball, got caught up in a collision with a Mexican player.

He appeared to throw an arm in the head area, then did it a second time.

Replays appeared to show a closed fist.

The reasoning for the red card in this case would be violent conduct.

🚨 IT'S A STRAIGHT RED CARD FOR THEMBA ZWANE! SOUTH AFRICA ARE DOWN TO 9 MEN! UTTER CHAOS FOR THE VISITORS! pic.twitter.com/I4Lvl71mFx

— Goal Galore ⭐️⭐️⚽️⚽️ (@BNewsMargazin) June 11, 2026

Fox broadcaster Landon Donovan thought it was probably fair, essentially emphasizing that Zwane's action forced the referee to make a decision.

The decision went in favor of the hosts, who had a great day to start the World Cup.