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Mexico fans erupt in celebration after World Cup 2026 debut win
🇲🇽 Mexico /Sports

Mexico fans erupt in celebration after World Cup 2026 debut win

From El Universal · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup.
  • Goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez secured the win for Mexico.
  • Thousands of fans celebrated the victory in Mexico City, despite heavy rain.

Mexico's debut in the 2026 World Cup sparked massive celebrations across Mexico City, with thousands of fans flocking to the iconic Ángel de la Independencia monument to cheer their team's 2-0 victory over South Africa. The "Tricolor," led by coach Javier Aguirre, ignited widespread joy with their first positive result in the tournament. Goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez were highlighted as key moments, energizing supporters who poured into the streets. Even a heavy downpour did not dampen the spirits of the jubilant fans, many of whom braved the rain with umbrellas and raincoats to join the festivities. As the rain subsided, the celebration reached its peak. The area around the Ángel de la Independencia transformed into a sea of Mexican flags, confetti, and enthusiastic chants. Fans expressed hope that the national team would maintain its strong performance throughout the World Cup. The atmosphere was further enhanced by a stage featuring regional Mexican music and folkloric performances. Among the attendees, fan Aarón Ordaz praised Julián Quiñones' performance, noting that the team's energy seemed to dip slightly after his substitution. The traditional "Cielito Lindo" and "¡Sí se pudo!" (Yes, we could!) were among the most popular chants, reflecting the fans' optimism for upcoming matches.

It is a pride that Mexico won (...) Julián Quiñones played very well, he was the most outstanding, when they took him out it was seen that the National Team went down a little.

— Aarón OrdazAn attendee's comment on Julián Quiñones' performance and its impact on the team.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.