Mexico City is immersed in a vibrant atmosphere as the nation prepares for a crucial last-16 World Cup match against England. The capital, a sensory overload of color and sound, is alive with the passion of fans swept along by what is considered the nation's best team in generations.
Thousands of supporters are flocking to public viewing areas, with major streets like Paseo de la Reforma shut down and adorned with giant screens for fans to watch the matches. The city's mayor, Clara Brugada, estimates that 1.4 million supporters gathered in the historic center to witness the team's first World Cup knockout victory in forty years against Ecuador.
The national team's strong performance, including an undefeated streak and no goals conceded in the group stage, has fueled a wave of optimism. This success, led by coach Javier Aguirre, has fostered a sense of nationalism, encapsulated by the popular TikTok phrase "¿Y si sí??" (loosely translated as "what if it happens?"), reflecting a belief that Mexico can win against the odds. This sentiment is a stark contrast to the team's struggles in late 2023, which led to public criticism.
Key figures like Raul Jimenez are embodying this resurgence. Jimenez, who has overcome a fractured skull, has become a hero to millions and is now the second most-prolific goalscorer in the country's history. His presence and performance are seen as a crucial link for the team. Young talent like 17-year-old Gilberto Mora is also generating excitement, with his displays earning him widespread admiration even from rival fans, marking him as a new great hope for the nation.
However, this period of national celebration has been marked by tragedy. Following the victory over Ecuador, celebrations in the Reforma area turned sinister, resulting in the deaths of four people, three of whom suffocated. Eyewitness accounts describe fans being crushed together, leading to panic and a dangerous crush. This incident has prompted discussions about crowd control and the promotion of nationalism.
Maya City officials are navigating calls to implement stricter rules for the upcoming match, balancing the desire for public celebration with safety concerns. While decentralized viewing events have been planned, many fans express a strong desire to be at the heart of the historic moments, contributing to the intense atmosphere surrounding the Azteca Stadium, which will host the match against England.
The team's recent successes, including Jimenez's past performances against England's goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, are being highlighted as potential omens. The expectation and belief in the squad are palpable, with fans anticipating a fervent atmosphere at the Azteca stadium for the showdown with England.