SOCCER: Mexico City turns yellow as Colombian fans make Azteca feel like home

MEXICO CITY - Hours before Colombia’s World Cup opener, Mexico City was already awash in yellow as thousands of visiting fans transformed the capital into a temporary slice of South America.

Colombian supporters, draped in national team colors, filled restaurants and streets across the city, enjoying traditional dishes such as bandeja paisa, sausages, eggs, beans, and empanadas while singing and preparing for what would become a memorable 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan in Group K at Estadio Azteca.

At Comedor de los Milagros, a Latin American food hall in Roma whose name means “Dining Room of Miracles,” the atmosphere reached fever pitch when Colombian singer Carlos Vives appeared, drawing loud cheers from fans who saw his presence as a good omen.

The venue, which brands itself as a “House of Latinos” with bright colors, murals, and Catholic-inspired imagery, felt more like a Colombian supporters’ club on match day.

“Mexico is more of a football country, but we are going to the United States too,” said Pablo Calderon, who traveled from Medellin with his brother. “We wanted to follow Colombia through the group stage, but everything is too expensive. Our ticket alone cost around $1,000.”

The cultural connection went beyond football economics. “There is common ground between Mexicans and Colombians,” said his brother, Ricardo Calderon. “We like football, music, food, and noise. That is why we feel good here.”

Inside Estadio Azteca, Colombia’s yellow-clad supporters dominated the stands, creating an atmosphere that felt almost like a home venue.

Daniel Muñoz opened the scoring in the 40th minute from a Luis Díaz assist. Uzbekistan briefly equalized through Abbosbek Fayzullaev’s first World Cup goal before Díaz and Jaminton Campaz sealed the win.

Even Colombian restaurants across the city rode the wave of celebration.

“The most Colombian house in Mexico,” said Andrea, manager of SalchiParce, a social media favorite. “Since the celebrations started yesterday and today, we have seen many Colombians here, although not only Colombians—Mexicans too.”

“We are focused on making them feel at home, with generous portions of food and authentic Colombian beer,” she added.

By the final whistle, Mexico City belonged to Colombia, at least for one night, as hundreds of “Los Cafeteros” supporters gathered at the Angel of Independence, a traditional site where Mexicans celebrate major football victories.

-Reporting by Angelica Medina in Mexico City; Editing by Christopher Cushing/Reuters