“Stick to sports!” has become the rallying cry of many in America who want to watch sports without the infusion of politics. Though, listening to Mexican fans talk about today’s World Cup qualifier versus the United States, you would think the game resembled just that.
The Los Angeles Times spoke with a number of Mexican fans in advance of today’s games, some who live or have lived in the United States. Though many of the fans have ties to the U.S., there’s no mistaking where their loyalties lie.
“President Trump has offended us, he is threatening us with his wall,” said Mario López in Mexico City.
“If Mexico beats the United States,Mexicans will celebrate like never before,” he said.
“President Trump has fomented hatred against Mexicans,” said Federico Gonzales, a 50-year-old doctor on Mexico City’s south side.
“If Mexico is victorious Sunday, it will send a message,” he said. “‘We win! In your face, Trump!’”
The U.S. vs Mexico rivalry, always one of the more tense rivalries in international soccer, took on a new life during the American presidential election when then-candidate Trump launched his campaign by pointing out that many of those illegally crossing the border are rapists and murderers. President Trump’s proposed border wall has also, obviously, struck a chord with fans “south of the border.”
However, since becoming president, the border wall remains unfunded and unbuilt. So, why the lingering anger and resentment, given that the primary reason for that anger remains, at this point, an unfulfilled campaign pledge?
Well, according to Reyes Damian, a 60-year-old who spent six years picking vegetables in California, there’s still anger at the anger American people for electing Trump in the first place. “I feel deceived that the American people could support him,” Damian said.
According to the Times, Damien “remembers his time in the U.S. fondly,” though when asked if he’ll be cheering for Mexico on Sunday, Damian said, “Of course, I’m proud to be Mexican.”
Still, not everyone feels that way towards Americans, even if they do harbor extreme resentment towards President Trump. Roberto Aceves, an architect, says, “We Mexicans have to show that we have respect for the Americans, that we have respect for their anthem, their flag and their players.
“We have to realize that we are friends, and that the U.S. players are not to blame for having the ignorant and racist president they have.” Aceves said.
Listening to Mexican soccer fan and student Alma Rodriguez, one definitely gets the idea that there’s a lot more on the line than a soccer game: “If Mexico wins, I’m worried that Trump will have a tantrum and threaten us on Twitter, or tell us that tomorrow the construction of the wall begins.”
Despite her concern over Trump’s Twitter threats, Rodriguez still offers, “It will be a great joy if we beat the gringos.”
Game on.
Follow Dylan Gwinn on Twitter: @themightygwinn