​Mexico, along with Canada and the United States as co-hosts, participated in the 2026 World Cup but were eliminated before the quarter-finals. They faced England in a Round of 16 matchup that Mexico likely believed they could win, given their strong performance on home soil. In the end, the Three Lions triumphed 3-2 after being reduced to ten men. Despite the tense nature of the match and the fact that one of the co-hosts exited the tournament, there remained a sense of mutual respect between the England and Mexico fans inside the Azteca Stadium.
During the tournament, supporters could purchase a Merlin the duck plush wearing the Mexican jersey. The toy gained popularity among local fans, and one Mexican supporter was observed giving his plush to a young English fan. A video capturing the moment, recorded during the recent Round of 16 clash at the Azteca, circulated on social media via ESPN.com.mx. The accompanying caption read: “A MEMORY HE’LL CARRY FOREVER. A Mexican fan gave a little fan his Merlin the duck plushie, and his reaction is UNIQUE. THIS IS WAY MORE THAN FOOTBALL.”
Beyond the on-pitch drama, England fans have also praised Mexico in the wake of their encounter, commending the hospitality of the people and the atmosphere at the stadium. On the field, Thomas Tuchel’s side progressed to the quarter-finals and were set to take on Norway later in the week. Securing a win in that match would push them into a potential semi-final showdown against either Argentina or Switzerland as the World Cup continued to unfold.
As the tournament moves forward, the narrative surrounding Mexico’s involvement has been colored by admiration from opponents and supporters alike for the warmth of the host nation and the passion of its fans, even amid a heartbreaking exit.