On Thursday, June 11, 2026, Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in its World Cup opener, sparking celebrations across the Eastside. - Fans in Boyle Heights, East LA, and Lincoln Heights donned jerseys, moños, and flags.
- Local businesses like Distrito Catorce, 1st Street Taqueria, and Espacio 1839 hosted viewing parties. - Rosalba Juarez and her family returned early from a FIFA Fan Festival due to heat.
- Vendors sold jerseys at Mariachi Plaza, and children waved flags along Whittier Boulevard. The community showed its tricolor pride with street gatherings and festive spirit.