The Mexican team is still at the World Cup, at least through its fans

In the eighth and last game of the FIFA Men’s World Cup held at SoFi Stadium, the house was packed for the quarterfinal game where Spain beat Belgium 2-1.

But as in many previous games, the many different shirts and flags, especially of the Mexican national team, didn't go unnoticed.

Despite Mexico being out of the World Cup after losing to England 3-2 in the round of 16 on July 5, Mexican fans agreed that the tournament is not over until it’s over.

Rolando, who was covered with a Mexican flag and was wearing a Mexican shirt and a Mexican scarf, said he’s very proud of the team.

“We are very happy because the team did an excellent job. I was at that game [England vs. Mexico], it was very rainy, but I had a lot of fun,” he said. 

Rolando thought it was a bittersweet moment to see El Tri losing at home at Estadio Azteca and that’s why almost all fans at the stadium didn’t move once the game was over.

“We stayed cheering for them, celebrating them and I think Mexico won not only in fútbol but also in their name. It was an excellent team and they were very united,” he said. “A very expensive ticket, but so worth it.”

Another group said they came to Los Angeles from Washington state. They bought their tickets way before they knew who would be at the quarterfinals. 

They all agree there is still a World Cup celebration, despite all Latino teams, except Argentina, being out of the tournament. 

“We are rooting for the best one; we just want to see a good game,” said a fan named Hector wearing a Peru shirt. 

“We didn’t know who would be here but we just wanted to come,” said a fan named Desiree. 

“We are here supporting all the teams,” added her companion Irvin, wearing a Mexican shirt. 

Once inside the stadium, a group of hinchas were holding a large Mexican flag and were dressed with the Mexican colors. They said they were there to continue enjoying the games with other cultures 

“We are always proud of our [Mexican] team, this is just the beginning. ¿Y si, sí?” said an excited fan named Yahir. “Today we are rooting for Spain, our motherland.”

Advancing to the semifinals

For the remaining teams of the quarterfinals, Argentina will face Switzerland on Saturday at 6 p.m. and Norway will face England at 2 p.m. Since Mexico lost to England, there are videos all over social media stating that Mexicans are now rooting for Norway and its star player Erling Haaland. They are even practicing the Viking row, a mimicry of rowing a Viking longship to the beat of a drum. 

Spain will face France on July 14 at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX, at noon and the final game will be held on July 19 at noon at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.