By Libby Rainey for LAistOriginally published on July 1, 2026
Celebrations in Los Angeles began long before the final whistle blew on Tuesday night, when Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 to advance from the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in 40 years.
It’s Mexico’s fourth straight win this tournament. The team hasn’t let a single goal in so far. With each victory, a feeling of hopeful glee is growing in Los Angeles, where it’s hard to walk a block without spotting a green Mexico jersey.
Mexico fans at the city’s watch parties are confident that something special is happening this World Cup…