Thousands celebrate in Santa Ana as México ends a 40-year World Cup knockout drought
Fans took over Downtown and Bristol well into Tuesday evening.
Thousands of Santaneros poured into Downtown Santa Ana and the Bristol Street corridor Tuesday night after Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0, ending a 40-year World Cup knockout-stage drought and advancing to the Round of 16.
The victory marked Mexico's first win in a World Cup elimination match since defeating Bulgaria at Estadio Azteca during the 1986 FIFA World Cup, ending four decades of heartbreak for El Tri supporters.
At least 1,000 fans gathered near Fourth and Bush streets outside Tacos Los Cholos, where a dual-screen truck broadcast Telemundo's live coverage of the match. Long before kickoff, lines stretched for blocks outside several downtown bars, many of which reached capacity shortly before the national anthems.
The Santanero visited several watch parties and businesses airing the match. As the final whistle sounded, cheers erupted across downtown before hundreds of supporters spilled into the streets waving Mexican flags, chanting "¡México!" and celebrating the historic victory.
On the field, Julián Quiñones opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, giving Mexico an early advantage before Raúl Jiménez doubled the lead in the 35th minute. Ecuador pressed throughout the second half but was unable to break through Mexico's defense, while goalkeeper Raúl Rangel preserved another clean sheet. Ecuador finished the match with 10 men after defender Piero Hincapié was shown a red card in stoppage time. Mexico has yet to concede a goal during the tournament.
Celebrations continued late into the evening throughout Downtown Santa Ana and along Bristol Street as motorists waved flags, honked horns and joined spontaneous caravans through the city. Police jumped into action almost immediately to close portions of Bristol and divert traffic.
Mexico will face the winner of Wednesday's Round of 32 match between England and the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the Round of 16, with a berth in the quarterfinals on the line.
