TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Dozens of Mexico fans packed the Playground Bar and Lounge in downtown Tucson Thursday to watch El Tri kick off the 2026 FIFA World Cup against South Africa's Bafana Bafana in Mexico City.
CHECK OUT THE STORY:
Green jerseys, sombreros and Mexican flags filled the bar as fans cheered on the Mexico national football team in what many called one of the most important matches of their lives.
"I'm just hoping Mexico wins," one fan said.
Mexico City hosted the opening match for a record third time. The atmosphere inside the bar reflected the passion fans brought from the opening whistle.
"We can't hide our flag," Gisselle Coronado said.
SEE SIMILAR WORLD CUP COVERAGE: FIFA World Cup kicks off Thursday, bringing excitement and a sales boost to Tucson soccer shop
For many, the emotion ran deep watching their country play on the world's biggest stage.
"Mexico is a footballing nation, so wherever we are, we're going to follow the atmosphere," Coronado said.
The Playground Bar and Lounge is hosting watch parties for all 104 matches of the tournament. Staff said the event is a significant economic boost during what is typically a slow summer season.
"It definitely means busier days, I mean it's packed on a Thursday," Stefanie Shirley, a bar representative said.
SEE SIMILAR WORLD CUP COVERAGE: Zerai's to the occasion: Tucson soccer bar prepares for World Cup crowds during typically slow summer season
Fans made the most of the moment, gathering with family and friends — including younger fans who came out to take in the experience.
"I'm having fun, and I love spending time with them," one young fan said.
When the final whistle blew, El Tri had secured the win. Mexico fans are now looking ahead to the rest of the tournament, hoping their team may finally win the whole thing.
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
——
Marc Monroy joined KGUN 9 as a multimedia journalist after moving from KGUN 9’s sister station, KXXV, in Waco, Texas. He graduated from California State University, Northridge, in 2024 with a degree in journalism. A native of Southern California and a bilingual reporter, Marc is excited to serve Southern Arizona and looks forward to connecting with neighbors in the community. Share your story ideas and important issues with Marc by emailing marc.monroy@kgun9.com or by connecting on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.
