[Sportschosun Jang Jong-ho] The festive atmosphere surrounding the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico City was dampened after protesters and police clashed violently near the stadium. While the opening ceremony and soccer excitement continued inside the venue, chaos broke out outside as tear gas and stones were exchanged.
According to foreign media, hundreds of protesters clashed with police around Estadio Azteca, Mexico City's iconic stadium, on the day the opening match was held on the 12th, local time.
About 10 minutes before kickoff, hundreds of protesters approached from the northeast side of the stadium and tried to force their way inside. Some threw flares and stones at police, and others damaged a cargo truck parked nearby.
Mexican police immediately deployed riot units and pushed the protesters back toward the road. Tear gas was used at the scene, and some police officers reportedly responded by throwing stones as well.
According to Mexico City Police, there were two protest groups totaling about 800 people. Around 200 masked protesters broke away and carried out more aggressive acts. Police deployed about 300 officers, along with mounted police, to disperse the crowd.
The protest was reportedly joined by families of people who disappeared during the Mexican drug war, as well as CNTE, judicial workers, transport workers, health care workers, and farmers' groups. They had reportedly planned several rallies in advance to stage their protest at the same time as the World Cup opening. As a result of the clashes, four subway stations near the stadium were temporarily closed, and some protesters reportedly knocked down safety fences around the venue.
Several injuries were also reported. One man collapsed from a heart attack and was taken to a hospital.
As tensions outside the stadium peaked, cheers continued inside. A spectacular opening performance featuring pop star Shakira was held, and Mexico's national team lifted the mood by scoring the first goal within 10 minutes of kickoff.
Head of Government of Mexico City Clara Brugada Molina had previously said she would not block the protests planned before the opening. In an interview with local media, she said, "This city is a place where protests and the joy of the World Cup can coexist," adding, "Both the right to protest and the right to enjoy the World Cup must be respected."
Meanwhile, Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the match to claim its first victory of the tournament. The game was also rough, with three red cards shown during play.
Jang Jong-ho bellho@sportschosun.com
