Some are calling it the World Cup of the red card.
When Belgium’s Nathan Ngoy was sent off with a straight red in the 66th minute vs. Iran on Sunday, red-card history was made.
Ngoy’s was the eighth red card issued at this edition of the World Cup, which ties the last two World Cups combined, The Athletic shared on X. There were exactly four red cards issued in Qatar and Russia, respectively.
Two matches at this tournament have featured two send-offs — the opening match between South Africa and Mexico, and Canada’s match on Thursday vs. Qatar.
Ngoy’s illegal challenge was made to prevent an Iranian breakaway, which is by rule worthy of a straight send-off. Iran was unable to capitalize despite being up a man, and the match finished 0-0.
The 2006 World Cup in Germany featured 28 red cards, which is the most all-time at one tournament.