Chaos at World Cup Opener: Mexican Police Attacked with Molotov Cocktails and Bricks

Pulse Sports Team 06:19 - 12 June 2026

The World Cup's opening match delivered spectacle inside the stadium and chaos outside. Approximately 200 masked demonstrators broke away from a larger group, aggressively confronting Mexican police, who were present in large numbers around the Mexico vs. South Africa match in the capital.

Mexico has been gripped by unrest for days leading up to the World Cup. In Mexico City, multiple protests have erupted, involving teachers, retired judges, and families of missing persons. With approximately 130,000 people missing in the country and organized crime a pervasive issue, protesters are voicing their anger that police resources are being diverted to the World Cup instead of the search for these individuals. These demonstrations escalated into chaos around the opening match, as reported by the British quality newspaper The Guardian.

Molotov Cocktails and Bricks

At exit eight of the Azteca Stadium, a group of 200 demonstrators clashed with police. They attempted to enter the stadium without tickets. The rioters hurled Molotov cocktails and bricks, resulting in some officers requiring medical attention. Police eventually brought the troublemakers under control, but not before dozens of arrests were made, according to a statement from the Mexican police.

Protests in Mexico

Initially, protesters had further plans leading up to the World Cup's opening. They aimed to disrupt the fan meeting at the famous Zocalo square and subsequently delay the kickoff of the opening match. Both plans were thwarted by decisive action from the Mexican authorities.

Meanwhile, host nation Mexico secured a 2-0 victory over South Africa in the World Cup opener. Julian Quiñones and Raul Jimenez scored the goals. The match was notable for the high number of red cards. Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane were sent off early for South Africa, and Mexican defender Cesar Montes received a red card in injury time. Thanks to South Korea's 2-1 win over the Czech Republic, Mexico leads Group A after the first round of matches.

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