Mexico celebrates historic World Cup round‑of‑16 qualification

Around one million people gathered in Mexico City’s streets, plazas and on giant screens after the national team secured a place in the World Cup round of 16 – the country’s first knockout‑stage victory in 40 years. The win sparked city‑wide celebrations with chanting, fireworks and large crowds inside the Estadio Azteca, where 80,000 fans sang “El Rey” after the final whistle.

Authorities are preparing security operations for the upcoming round‑of‑16 match on 5 July, when Mexico will face England at the same stadium. The event has been described as the happiest night in modern Mexican football history, marking a generational shift from past disappointments.