Mexican soccer fans erupted in celebration Thursday after their national team finally broke through on World Cup opening day, defeating South Africa 2-0 at a packed Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
The victory ended a frustrating pattern for Mexico, which had lost its opening match in seven consecutive World Cup tournaments before Thursday’s breakthrough performance in front of 80,000 roaring supporters.
“It broke the curse, and what better place to do it than at home,” said Arturo Lopez, 32, inside the Azteca. “It’s the dream of all kids who like soccer to be able to attend one time in our lifetime.”
Julian Quinones provided the spark Mexico needed, scoring in the ninth minute to calm early jitters and ignite the crowd at one of soccer’s most legendary venues. The match turned physical throughout, resulting in three players receiving red cards.
Fan Beth Navaez, who previously attended World Cups in Russia and Qatar, praised the home crowd’s impact on the team’s performance. “The crowd – all the people – it energized the team,” she said, noting it was “more exciting” to watch them compete in Mexico.
Despite the opening victory, Navaez remained cautious about Mexico’s tournament chances. “We always have hope but they always disappoint,” she added.
The celebration extended beyond the stadium to Mexico City’s main Zocalo square, where a fan zone reached its 50,000-person capacity. Supporters continued dancing and singing even as rain began falling during the match.
“I’m content, I’m happy, I’m 100% Mexican,” said Marta Gonzalez, 42, as she departed the Zocalo celebration with her daughter and son.
The fan zone had been surrounded by protesting teachers in the days leading up to the match, but the barriers came down as soccer fever took over the historic square.
