A few hours before the opening match between Mexico and South Africa, clashes broke out between protesters and police near the stadium. Students from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), along with several activist groups, marched in the capital to denounce the public spending on organizing the tournament. The protesters believe these resources should be prioritized for addressing the country's social needs. As fans converged on the stadium, some protesters attempted to breach the security barriers erected around the entrances. Barriers were moved, and clashes erupted with riot police deployed to the scene. According to authorities, several protesters threw stones and other projectiles at the police. Officers reinforced their security perimeter to prevent any intrusion into the spectator areas. Smoke bombs and plumes of smoke were visible near the stadium's perimeter. The slogans and banners highlighted social inequalities, unsolved disappearances in Mexico, and criticisms related to the cost of the event. Despite these tensions, authorities indicated they had maintained control of the situation throughout the day. The opening match ultimately took place as planned in front of thousands of fans, allowing the World Cup to officially open in the Mexican capital.
