sports
Triumph at the Azteca offers respite from strife on Mexico City’s streets
One of football’s great arenas roared as El Tri eased past South Africa, offering fans a fleeting escape from the tensions gripping the capital

TL;DR
- Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in their World Cup opener at the Estadio Ciudad de México (Azteca).
- The match occurred amidst protests and a sense that Mexico has a minor role in hosting the World Cup, with most games in the US.
- The Azteca stadium was renovated and provided a vibrant atmosphere, with fans and organizers incorporating Mexican culture into the presentation.
- Despite some fan discontent, the team secured a victory, offering a temporary escape from the capital's tensions.
- Protests and clashes with police occurred outside the stadium but subsided as fans left.