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Mexico fans gathered across Southern California on Sunday night after the national team fell short in its World Cup matchup against England, with some celebrating the team’s tournament run by spilling into the streets with flags and fireworks.
In Santa Ana, AIR7 flew over fans around 9 p.m. as they set off fireworks, waved Mexico flags and shook each other’s cars in an apparent celebration of the team’s effort. Car shaking is a recent trend that has become popular in Mexico during the team’s World Cup run.
In Huntington Park, police closed the intersection of Mountain View Avenue and Florence Avenue as people spilled into the streets. Video posted to the Citizen App showed at least one person being detained.
In Lynwood, a large crowd packed Plaza Mexico to watch the game before taking the celebration into the streets. Police set up a perimeter as a precaution. The celebrations lasted more than two hours after the game’s final whistle.
Mexico fans near Plaza Mexico said they were disappointed by the loss but still proud of the team.
“We’re sad. We’re devastated. We’re horrible, bro. We wanted Mexico to win so bad. We thought they were going to win. It is what it is. It’s soccer,” fan Athena Rafael said.
The matchup also drew people who said they came for the watch party atmosphere.
“We love Mexican food. We love Mexican dancing. We just love Mexican culture. It’s such a beautiful place,” Melissa and Heidi Francisco said.
England fans also gathered in Santa Monica, where a watch party erupted in excitement after England advanced.
England led most of the game with back-to-back scores. Mexico remained determined, but ultimately came up short.
“They played their hearts out. They went out with a bang. They did amazing. They did amazing,” fan Mateo Rico said.
“It just makes me feel more connected to my nationality,” fan William Chavez said.
Mia, an 8-year-old fan, said she was still proud of the team.
“Maybe like 10 out of 10,” she said when asked how proud she was. “Because they tried their best.”
England will play Norway in the quarterfinal next weekend in Miami.
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