Hot Time in the City : Mexico’s Victory Over Ireland Sparks Wild Celebrations, Disturbances in the Capital

Tens of thousands of horn-blowing soccer fans carrying Mexican flags and shouting “Mex-i-CO, Mex-i-CO” gathered at the Independence Monument to celebrate their country’s first 1994 World Cup victory.

The final whistle had barely sounded in the 2-1 triumph over Ireland when Mexicans began pouring onto fashionable Paseo de la Reforma, many abandoning their offices for the day.

After losing, 1-0, to Norway on Sunday, the Mexican team desperately needed to earn points against Ireland to avoid being eliminated in the first round. Mexico can assure itself of a berth in the second round with a victory over Italy on Thursday in Washington.

Some of the celebrants broke the windshields of autos parked on nearby streets and trampled a tent city that housed protesters from southern Mexico. The Associated Press said 36 people were injured, including 20 riot police.

Radio announcers were advising listeners not to join the throngs, as riot police fought fans for control of the area around the monument, a pillar with a golden angel on top that has become the capital’s symbol. Several people were arrested in the scuffle.

City officials quickly withdrew the riot-control units and sealed off the street for several blocks. A mariachi band was installed on a mobile stage in front of the monument.

By mid-afternoon, fans were swaying to the band’s waltz-like rhythm and singing, “Mexico, lovely and beloved; Mexico, I am for you.” Couples and a few drunken men danced where they could find space.

Despite a seasonal afternoon shower, crowds kept coming well into the evening. Vendors did a booming business in flags and plastic horns that fans tooted in a three-syllable rhythm, echoing the honking of horns from cars and trucks packed with passengers cruising the access streets.

For a peso, the equivalent of about 30 cents, Guadalupe Ruiz painted “Mexico” in white italics across 18-year-old Juan Ignacio Bustamante’s cheeks. Then she smudged a spot of red paint above it and green below, completing the colors of the Mexican flag.

Carlos Gonzalez, 15, said he was enjoying the celebration, whether Mexico qualifies for the second round. “I think we have a good chance of tying,” he added. “Italy is not that good this year.”

His 19-year-old cousin, Mariana Gonzalez, a student, added, “The truth is, Mexicans will celebrate anything. Just wait till you see what happens if we qualify.”