Clashes erupt between protesters and police outside Mexico City's Azteca Stadium during 2026 World Cup opening match
via SeneNews1 min read
Clashes broke out between protesters and police outside Mexico City's Azteca Stadium during the opening match of the 2026 World Cup. Demonstrators, demanding justice for missing persons, confronted law enforcement, creating tension during the major sporting event. Dozens of protesters and police officers clashed on Thursday outside the stadium, where the opening match between Mexico and South Africa was taking place. The protesters are demanding justice for missing persons, an issue in a country affected by drug-related violence. They removed some barriers protecting the stadium's perimeter and exchanged blows with security forces. The kickoff for the first World Cup football match took place earlier on Thursday after an opening ceremony at the iconic venue, where Shakira entertained approximately 80,000 spectators.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Mexico City launched the 2026 World Cup with a festive atmosphere, marked by the national team's 2-0 victory over South Africa at the Azteca Stadium. The opening ceremony featured traditional and modern music, including performances by Shakira and Burna Boy, celebrating Mexico's culture. However, the event was also marred by clashes between police and protesters outside the stadium, as well as overcrowding at the fan zone. Striking teachers had used the tournament to voice their demands, leading to blockades in parts of the capital. Despite these tensions, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that the situation was "under control." Thousands of fans, some arriving as early as 6:30 AM, flocked to the stadium, which was secured by a large police presence. Protesters, demanding justice for missing persons, confronted law enforcement, tearing down barriers and engaging in physical altercations. FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the trophy to the crowd, and the official World Cup anthem, "DNA," was performed by Andrea Bocelli and Ejae.
Winger Abde Ezzalzouli and defender Nayef Aguerd have been removed from the Moroccan national team for the World Cup due to injuries, just two days before their opening match against Brazil. This is a significant blow for the Atlas Lions. The FIFA updated the list of 26 players from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, showing that Ezzalzouli and Aguerd have been replaced by Angers left-winger Amine Sbaï and Al-Fateh club defender Marwane Saadane. Ezzalzouli sustained a right knee sprain during the first half of a preparatory match against Norway. Aguerd has been sidelined since March after surgery for a groin injury. The absence of Ezzalzouli, 24, is particularly impactful given his impressive form with Betis this season, where he played a key role in the team's fifth-place finish in La Liga and qualification for the Champions League. He also contributed to the club reaching the Europa League quarterfinals. Aguerd's experience as a central defender and his contribution to the 2022 World Cup semi-finalists were highly valued by the new coach, Mohamed Ouahbi. Morocco faces a shortage of experienced central defenders following the retirement of former captain Romain Saïss, the injury of Torino defender Adam Masina during the last Africa Cup of Nations, and the long unavailability of Crystal Palace defender Chadi Riad, who has just returned to competition. Fulham defender Issa Diop, who chose to represent Morocco, has joined the team.
Kylian Mbappé, captain of the French national team, shared his thoughts on the upcoming World Cup 2026 match against Senegal. Mbappé highlighted the historical and emotional significance of the encounter. He referred to Senegal as the "champion of Africa," though he humorously questioned if it was them or Morocco, stating, "We'll stay out of that." The 27-year-old player described Senegal as a "great team" and expressed enthusiasm for starting the tournament with such a significant match. He noted the shared history between France and Senegal would make the game more exciting. Mbappé emphasized the importance of a strong start for France to secure three points and alleviate any initial anxieties.