South Africa coach Broos calls Zwane red card too harsh, cites Messi non-VAR incident
South Africa’s coach Hugo Broos criticized the officiating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying the red card given to midfielder Themba Zwane was excessively harsh. Zwane was shown a red card in the 84th minute of South Africa’s opening match against Mexico after appearing to strike Roberto Alvarado in the face while being obstructed; VAR recommended a violent conduct review. FIFA imposed an additional two-game suspension on top of the automatic one-match ban, meaning Zwane misses three matches and could only return if South Africa advances to the Round of 32. Broos compared the incident to Lionel Messi’s clash with Algeria’s Aissa Mandi in the Argentina-Algeria match, where Messi appeared to make contact with the defender’s calf but was not penalized and did not undergo a VAR check. Broos stated he does not consider Zwane’s challenge a red card and believes the decision was unjust. He spoke to the media ahead of South Africa’s second group match against Czechia. The coach’s comments highlight concerns about consistency in VAR application and disciplinary standards during the tournament.