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Wilton Pereira Sampaio led Mexico vs. South Africa at Azteca Stadium and gained prominence after red cards, announcement via sound system, and strong internet repercussion
The opening of the 2026 World Cup featured Brazilian participation in one of the most talked-about moments of the match between Mexico and South Africa.
The referee Wilton Pereira Sampaio led the game at Azteca Stadium on Thursday, June 11, 2026, and quickly became a topic on social media.
The repercussion happened after three expulsions, with two against South African players and one against a Mexican athlete.
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One of the decisions drew even more attention because it was announced in English over the stadium’s sound system.
On social media, users turned the referee’s performance into a meme, with comments like “Our Anitta” and “It’s the legend Wilton Pereira Sampaio”.
Brazilian refereeing draws attention right at the World Cup opening
Wilton Pereira Sampaio was chosen to officiate the opening match of the 2026 World Cup between Mexico and South Africa.
The duel officially opened the World Cup at Azteca Stadium, one of the most traditional stages in international football.
During the game, the Brazilian issued the first yellow card of this World Cup edition to Mokoena from South Africa.
Soon after, the referee’s performance gained even more prominence due to the expulsions.
The first red card was issued to the South African Sphephelo Sithole, increasing the match’s tension.
Three expulsions change the atmosphere of Mexico vs. South Africa
The match became more intense after Wilton Pereira Sampaio expelled three players throughout the confrontation.
On the African side, Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane were taken off the field following decisions by the Brazilian referee.
A Mexican player also received a red card during the game.
Thus, the opening of the 2026 World Cup was marked by a very present refereeing.
The series of penalties quickly spread Wilton’s name among fans and sports profiles.
English announcement over the sound system goes viral at Azteca Stadium
The most notable moment occurred during the expulsion of Themba Zwane.
After the decision, Wilton Pereira Sampaio announced the red card in English over the Azteca Stadium’s sound system.
The scene drew attention because the announcement was heard by the audience present in the stadium.
The gesture also resonated among fans watching the match via broadcast.
Quickly, the incident was associated with memes already circulating about the Brazilian referee.
Memes take over social media after Wilton’s performance
On social media, the presence of Wilton Pereira Sampaio at the opening became a topic of jokes.
Among the posts, users used phrases like “Our Anitta” and “It’s the legend Wilton Pereira Sampaio”.
The humorous comparison appeared while the Brazilian referee conducted a match of high global visibility.
The red cards further amplified the reach of the comments.
As a result, Brazilian refereeing became one of the most talked-about side topics of the debut.
Brazilian assistants completed the refereeing team
The match also had a Brazilian presence on the sidelines of the field.
Wilton Pereira Sampaio was accompanied by assistants Bruno Pires and Bruno Boschilla.
Thus, the opening refereeing team included three representatives from Brazil.
The information was highlighted by outlets such as Reuters, ge, Lance, UOL, and CNN Brasil, which followed the arbitration lineup.
World Cup Opening Marked by Cards, Announcement in English, and Repercussions
The match between Mexico and South Africa marked the start of the 2026 World Cup with significant repercussions for Brazilian refereeing.
Wilton Pereira Sampaio issued the first yellow card of the World Cup, expelled three players, and even announced a decision in English.
Meanwhile, the internet turned the plays into memes and increased the visibility of the Brazilian referee.
The debut, therefore, drew attention not only for the game but also for the performance of the refereeing team.
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