Mexico Celebrates El Tri's 2-0 World Cup Opening Win

Hundreds of thousands of Mexicans flooded city squares and parks Thursday to watch their national team defeat South Africa 2-0 in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The victory sparked nationwide celebrations that turned streets into rivers of green jerseys and joyful faces.

President Claudia Sheinbaum opened her Friday morning press conference beaming with pride, congratulating El Tri not just for the win but "for the happiness the players gave to the people of Mexico." She watched the match alongside fans at a public viewing event in northern Mexico City rather than from the stadium.

Tourism Minister Josefina Rodríguez reported stunning turnout numbers across the country. In Mexico City's historic Zócalo square, 100,000 fans gathered at the official FIFA Fan Festival. Another 200,000 people packed viewing sites across the capital's 16 boroughs.

Beyond Mexico City, the celebration spread nationwide. Monterrey's FIFA Fan Festival drew 50,000 people, while Guadalajara welcomed 38,000 fans. Countless more watched from neighborhood squares and homes with family.

"I think we all got goosebumps yesterday," Rodríguez told reporters, capturing the emotional weight of hosting the World Cup on home soil. Mexico is co-hosting the tournament with the United States and Canada.

The Ripple Effect

The World Cup opener delivered more than just a soccer victory. It created a rare moment of national unity, bringing together families across generations in matching green shirts. From children in small towns to crowds at the Angel of Independence monument in Mexico City, Mexicans found common ground in cheering for their team.

The economic impact looks promising too. Tourism officials expect more than 2 million visitors to Mexico City in June alone, as the capital prepares to host multiple World Cup matches. That influx means jobs, business opportunities, and a chance to showcase Mexican hospitality to the world.

Sheinbaum's decision to skip the stadium demonstrated thoughtful leadership. She gave her ticket to the winner of a government-run soccer ball juggling competition for young Mexican women, creating an opportunity where it mattered most.

The festivities continue as Mexico prepares for its next match and the country settles into its role as World Cup host.