Demonstrators and law enforcement clashed outside Estadio Azteca as Mexico hosted the tournament's opening match against South Africa on Thursday.
11:02 PM
Protesters and police clashed outside Mexico City Stadium on Thursday as the 2026 World Cup began, with demonstrators smashing vehicle windows and engaging in violent confrontations with law enforcement during the opening match between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa.
The tournament kicked off at Estadio Azteca, an 82,000-capacity arena, against a backdrop of significant civil unrest and anti-government protests. According to reports, clashes between demonstrators and police occurred just as Mexico scored the tournament's first goal. The unrest follows weeks of demonstrations that have already jeopardized plans to host World Cup fan events in the Zócalo, the city's central square.
A strong security presence was deployed around the perimeter of the stadium, with supporters and others attending the game advised to arrive well in advance of the 1 p.m. ET kick-off time. Mexico City police stood guard around the venue in the days leading up to the match.
Despite the civil unrest, Mexico City has been transformed by the opening week of the tournament. Mexican flags hang from bikes and balconies throughout the capital. Bright orange Mexican marigold flowers are appearing across the city, and fan zones are taking shape. Giant images of Mexico players loom from towering buildings, and football shirts are visible everywhere—on the streets, in parks, and in cafes. Conversations throughout the city revolve around the tournament, with an atmosphere described as vibrant, alive, and full of anticipation.
For the third time in its history, Mexico City is hosting the World Cup. The opening match proceeded as scheduled, with Mexico facing South Africa in the tournament's inaugural fixture.
Teachers have been among those spearheading demonstrations, pushing for improved working conditions. The Secretariat of Citizen Security of Mexico City documented the incidents that occurred during the opening day.
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