Hundreds of people gathered at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum to watch the World Cup's inaugural matchup. That's where FIFA's Fan Festival is happening. This unique fan experience is only around through the weekend. It's only $10 to get in and kids get in for free.
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If you weren't in Mexico City for the game, Plaza Mexico in Lynwood was the next best place to be. Some fans told Eyewitness News that watching the game there was almost like watching it in Mexico.
It was a day to remember for Mexico fans all over the world, including those gathered at Plaza Mexico, where the party continued after the game.
A sea of green jerseys jumped with joy as Mexico scored, not once, but twice to take the victory over South Africa. There were families with babies and people of all ages and walks of life under a unified tradition of cheering for Mexico.
Even before the game started, fans were ready with jerseys, Mexican flags and energy, dancing their way into the opening match.
"We're very happy that our team is here. We're going all the way to the finals," said Franklin Sanchez, Mexico fan from South L.A. "We can't be at the stadium but we're here supporting Mexico, and I mean, as I say, till the day I die, I'm going to be a proud Mexican, no matter what."
"Mexico '86, I also experienced that World Cup, so, I'm very excited," said Compton resident and Mexico soccer fan Roberto Rojas. He added that he couldn't sleep waiting for Thursday's game to come and says it's something you feel in your heart.
Although the furthest Mexico has gone in a World Cup is quarter finals, fans are hopeful that the future of El Tri in this World Cup will be different.
Mexico is hosting the World Cup along with the United States and Canada.