The opening of the 2026 World Cup was a celebration inside the Azteca Stadium, but outside, the lead-up was marked by protests, road closures, and incidents at the entrances.
The 2026 World Cup kicked off with a victory for the Mexican National Team, an international spectacle, and a packed Azteca Stadium. But before the team led by Javier Aguirre secured a 2-0 win against South Africa, the opening day also left an uncomfortable scene in Mexico City.
In the hours leading up to the match, various social mobilizations coincided with the security operation mounted around the stadium. The Mexican capital experienced roadblocks, disturbances, and difficulties for fans trying to reach El Tri’s debut.
Among the groups that mobilized were teachers’ unions, student collectives, organizations of families of missing persons, and other sectors that sought to take advantage of the World Cup’s exposure to highlight their demands.
The CNTE (National Coordinator of Education Workers) was one of the main actors of the day. The Mexico City government activated a special operation called “Last Mile,” designed to control access to Azteca Stadium. The measure included road closures, security checkpoints, and restrictions on entering the area.
Access was limited to ticket holders, accredited residents, authorized vehicles, and emergency services. In addition, alternative transportation options such as Park & Ride and special shuttles were made available to try to organize the arrival of fans.
Even so, there were complaints about subway failures, long lines, and complications on various transportation systems. The Fan Fest remained open, but it also operated under the pressure of planned protests.
Fox Sports Mexico reported that a group identified as the Black Bloc caused damage to nearby facilities and to Gate 8 of Azteca Stadium during the opening ceremony.
According to the report, there was damage to facilities, security cameras, and vehicles along the protesters’ route. It was also reported that press personnel were evacuated to safer areas as a precaution.
None of this prevented the match from being played. Mexico took to the field with conviction, Quiñones opened the scoring in the 9th minute, and Raúl Jiménez sealed the 2-0 victory in the second half.
In summary:
Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, but the lead-up to the game was marked by protests and traffic disruptions.
The “Last Mile” operation restricted access to Azteca Stadium and caused road closures in the area.
Fox Sports reported damage at Gate 8 of the stadium, the most serious incident of an already tense day.
Source: msn
