MEXICO CITY : Thousands of Colombian supporters transformed Mexico City into a sea of yellow ahead of their team’s World Cup opener on Tuesday, creating a festive atmosphere that carried into a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan at the Estadio Azteca.
Hours before kickoff, fans wearing Colombia’s national colours filled restaurants, bars and public spaces across the capital, singing, dancing and sharing traditional food as they prepared to support their team in Group K action.
At Comedor de los Milagros, a Latin American food hall in the Roma district, supporters packed the venue while enjoying Colombian staples including bandeja paisa and empanadas. The atmosphere intensified when singer Carlos Vives made an appearance, drawing cheers from fans who viewed it as a lucky sign ahead of the match.
The venue, known for celebrating Latin American culture through colourful murals and regional cuisine, became an unofficial gathering point for travelling supporters.
“Mexico is more of a football country, but we are going to the United States too,” said Pablo Calderon, who travelled from Medellin with his brother to follow Colombia at the tournament.
“We wanted to follow Colombia through the group stage, but everything is too expensive. Our ticket alone cost around $1,000.”
For many visitors, the appeal of Mexico extended beyond football.
“There is common ground between Mexicans and Colombians,” said Ricardo Calderon.
“We like football, music, food and noise. That is why we feel good here.”
Inside the Azteca, Colombian supporters dominated the stands and generated an atmosphere that resembled a home match.
Daniel Munoz gave Colombia the lead shortly before halftime after being set up by Luis Diaz. Uzbekistan equalised through Abbosbek Fayzullaev, who scored his country’s first World Cup goal, but Diaz restored Colombia’s advantage before Jaminton Campaz sealed the victory.
The influx of supporters also provided a boost to Colombian-owned businesses in the city.
“The most Colombian house in Mexico,” said Andrea, manager of popular restaurant SalchiParce.
“Since the celebrations kicked off yesterday and today, we have seen a lot of Colombians here, although not only Colombians – Mexicans too.”
“We are interested in making them feel at home, with a big enough plate of food and some authentic Colombian beer,” she added.
Following the final whistle, celebrations continued across the city as hundreds of Colombian supporters gathered at the Angel de la Independencia monument, a landmark traditionally associated with major football celebrations in Mexico.
For one night at least, Mexico City belonged to Colombia as their fans and team made a memorable start to the World Cup.
