Was that the defining moment? Nine minutes into the opening match, Sphephelo Sithole’s misstep allowed Julián Quiñones to strike the first goal, sending the ball through Ronwen Williams’s legs. This pivotal moment might have marked a shift in focus from concerns about the aggression of the co-hosts, allowing the world to embrace the celebration that the World Cup symbolizes.
However, amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions and the absence of a local organizing committee—an unprecedented decision by Gianni Infantino—issues like chaotic traffic, poor signage, and lack of internet connectivity plagued the event. Mexican fans, nonetheless, seemed unfazed by these logistical challenges.
Despite the three red cards issued during the match, Mexico secured a straightforward win against a disappointing South African side, who now look ahead to the knockout stages. “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.”
“When we looked at the stadium, it was incredible,” echoed the opening ceremony’s voiceover, although it did not encompass everyone, particularly those unable to afford the high ticket prices. The football community increasingly appears to be a small and affluent circle.
During the 1986 World Cup, the stadium’s loudspeakers hung above the center circle, casting a distinctive shadow that became emblematic of that tournament. A similar shadow was cast by a massive FIFA sign that loomed over the pitch before the game. For the match itself, the sign was repositioned to hover above one stand, eerily resembling a corporate version of Sauron’s Eye, observing the proceedings below.
Yet, despite the numerous issues and geopolitical concerns, the grandeur of the setting was undeniable. The historical significance of the venue resonated from the steep stands, where memories of past legends linger. Renovations have preserved enough familiarity to evoke iconic moments, like Pelé’s pass to Carlos Alberto, Manuel Negrete’s bicycle kick against Bulgaria, and Diego Maradona’s famous dribble leading to his second goal against England.
The vibrancy and energy outside the stadium were palpable, with mariachi bands, fans adorned in whimsical headgear, and a jazz ensemble clad in lilac. The streets surrounding the Azteca buzzed with activity, filled with joyous chaos. A line to purchase beer at a nearby 7-Eleven extended 50 yards, illustrating the festive atmosphere as supporters abandoned their transportation to join the throng heading to the stadium.
When the Mexican team emerged for warm-ups, the crowd erupted in cheers. The initial skepticism dissipated, replaced by excitement and anticipation, culminating in a flurry of cardboard sombreros as the kickoff approached. “We got a little bit of stage fright.” Aguirre commented. “didn’t know how to find the spaces” This excitement reached a peak when Quiñones, the top scorer in the Saudi Pro League last season, scored the opening goal.
Four minutes into the second half, Sithole’s dismal performance concluded with a red card for a foul on Brian Gutiérrez. Quiñones had previously struck the post late in the first half, but the home crowd’s concerns faded as Raúl Jiménez found himself unmarked at the back post, heading home Roberto Alvarado’s cross.
South Africa’s coach, Hugo Broos, claimed his team “There were some mistakes that were very costly,” adding that there were moments when Mexico “Being sent off is something you can avoid.” However, he acknowledged the disparity in skill levels. As discipline waned and hope diminished for South Africa, substitute Themba Zwane was sent off for a foul on Alvarado with just six minutes left.
In the entire Qatar World Cup, only three red cards were issued throughout the tournament, yet this match alone matched that figure, with César Montes receiving a rather harsh dismissal for a last-man foul on Khuliso Mudau.
“There were some mistakes that were very costly,” Quiñones remarked. “Being sent off is something you can avoid.”
While Mexico may feel they could have secured a more decisive victory, the tournament has commenced with a win for the hosts. Still, the overarching issues surrounding the event remain unresolved.
