Ecuadorian supporters gathered in Mexico City for the World Cup round of 32 clash against Mexico have turned the city’s streets into a celebration of colour and song, even as a raucous serenade echoed outside their team hotel.
Despite the noisy welcome, the fans described their encounters with Mexican supporters as warm and respectful, illustrating how the tournament can bridge political divides.
A Diplomatic Rift That Has Not Reached the Stands
The friendly vibe comes at a time when diplomatic ties between the two nations have been strained since April 2024, when Ecuador’s police raid on the Mexican embassy in Quito sparked a row that led to the recall of ambassadors.
Ecuadorian officials lodged a formal complaint with World Cup organisers about the late‑night noise, yet the incident has not translated into any hostility inside the stadium.
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum has said the country will not renew diplomatic relations with Ecuador while President Daniel Noboa remains in office, but the teams themselves are focused on the pitch.
For Mexico, the match represents a chance to claim a first home‑soil knockout victory since the 1986 tournament, while Ecuador is hoping to break a long‑standing drought of knockout‑stage progress that dates back to their 2006 run.
Ecuadorian journalist Karolina Davila, reporting from the capital, said her own experience has been overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the notion that football can remain separate from politics.