Was that the defining moment? When Sphephelo Sithole lost possession just nine minutes into the match, allowing Julián Quiñones to charge forward and strike the ball through Ronwen Williams’s legs, did football finally take center stage, overshadowing the pre-match concerns? Perhaps not. Global tensions persist, with Donald Trump’s ongoing conflict with Iran and various immigration issues still in play.
Moreover, FIFA president Gianni Infantino chose to manage this tournament without a local organizing committee, a decision that may not account for the apparent disarray at the Azteca Stadium, characterized by chaotic traffic, nonexistent signage, and a general lack of order. However, Mexican fans seemed unfazed by these logistical issues.
Despite the three red cards, Mexico’s victory was somewhat underwhelming. With South Africa’s performance falling short of expectations, their focus now shifts to progressing to the knockout stage. “We were superior but the score did not reflect that,” remarked Mexico’s manager, Javier Aguirre. “Things got a little complicated but we relaxed and we did start with a win. Can we make it better? Of course.”
The opening ceremony proclaimed, “When we looked at the stadium, it was incredible,” although this sentiment did not extend to everyone, including those unable to afford the high ticket prices. The football community appears increasingly exclusive and affluent.
During the 1986 World Cup, loudspeakers hung above the center circle, casting a distinctive shadow that became a hallmark of the event. A similar shadow loomed before this match, created by a massive FIFA sign that ominously hovered over the pitch. For the match itself, that sign was relocated to a high vantage point, overseeing the proceedings like a corporate version of Sauron’s Eye.
Yet, amidst these concerns and geopolitical tensions, the grandeur of the venue was undeniable, steeped in history. The stadium has undergone renovations but retains familiar elements that evoke memories of past legendary moments: Pelé’s iconic pass to Carlos Alberto, Manuel Negrete’s bicycle kick against Bulgaria, and Diego Maradona’s legendary dribble leading to his second goal against England.
The vibrant atmosphere was equally undeniable. Outside the stadium, mariachi bands played, and fans donned masks resembling dogs and pigs, as well as wrestling masks. The streets around the Azteca buzzed with energy from dawn, creating a festive chaos. Lines for beer at nearby convenience stores extended far beyond the entrance, as fans abandoned their vehicles to join the throng heading to the stadium.
The Mexican team’s arrival for warm-ups was met with thunderous cheers. Although initial sentiments were skeptical, excitement surged an hour before kickoff, culminating in a flurry of cardboard sombreros as the countdown commenced. “We got a little bit of stage fright.” Aguirre noted. “didn’t know how to find the spaces” Another wave of sombreros flew through the air as Quiñones, the Saudi Pro League’s top scorer last season, opened the scoring for the hosts.
Things worsened for Sithole shortly after halftime when he was sent off for fouling Brian Gutiérrez. Quiñones had earlier hit the post, but the fervent home crowd had expressed their discontent before Raúl Jiménez arrived unmarked at the back post to convert Roberto Alvarado’s cross.
South Africa’s coach, Hugo Broos, claimed his team “There were some mistakes that were very costly,” at times and pointed out that Mexico struggled to exploit spaces. However, he acknowledged that Mexico had performed at a higher level. As South Africa’s hopes faded, substitute Themba Zwane received a red card with six minutes left for a foul on Alvarado.
The first match of this tournament equaled the total number of red cards issued during the entire Qatar World Cup, with César Montes harshly sent off for an infraction as he tripped Khuliso Mudau.
“Being sent off is something you can avoid.” said Quiñones. “Being sent off is something you can avoid.”
Mexico may feel they could have secured a more decisive win, but they begin the tournament on a positive note. The overarching issues surrounding the event, however, remain unresolved.
