Mexico’s opening World Cup victory was overshadowed by violent clashes outside Azteca Stadium before the match. Groups of ticketless fans and protesters attempted to force their way into the stadium.
elchi reports that stones and bottles were thrown at police in front of Gate 8, and local media reported that dozens of people were detained as a result of the incidents.
Mexico City police faced protests throughout the week during tournament preparations from teachers, retired judges, and families of the 130,000 people missing in the country; however, it was reported that the clashes outside the stadium were not politically motivated.
A group of masked individuals attempting to storm the gate threw bricks, Molotov cocktails, and various objects at the police. Several police officers required medical attention as a result of the attacks.
A spokesperson for the Mexico Secretariat of Citizen Security stated, “Approximately 200 masked individuals, separated from two groups of about 800 protesters, caused the disturbances, but the situation was brought under control by the metropolitan police.” Despite road closures along a three-kilometer stretch around the stadium, at least five different protest groups gathered in the area. However, concerns that the match might be postponed were unfounded, and the game started on time. The FIFA Fanfest event held at the Zocalo Square in the city center also took place as planned, despite attempts by protest groups to cancel it. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum did not attend the match as she gave her ticket to a 21-year-old lottery winner.
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