The 2026 World Cup opened with controversy and drama on the pitch. Officials faced scrutiny over VAR decisions and multiple red cards as teams battled in intense conditions, while new hydration protocols drew attention from observers concerned about player welfare. South Korean star Son Heung-min was among the notable players involved in the opening day action. According to Al Jazeera, the first day delivered the chaos expected of a tournament that changes football's rules and raises questions about fairness at the sport's biggest stage.

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