Mexico‘s long-awaited breakthrough at the FIFA World Cup sparked scenes of unbridled celebration on Tuesday, June 30, so much so that jubilant fans at the iconic Estadio Azteca reportedly generated seismic activity powerful enough to register on monitoring equipment after the hosts defeated Ecuador 2-0 to reach the Round of 16.
The roar inside the iconic stadium following Mexico’s historic knockout victory was detected as an “artificial seismic signal,” according to the New York Post, underscoring the extraordinary atmosphere created by tens of thousands of supporters in Mexico City.
The moment arrived in the 22nd minute when Julian Quinones fired home the opening goal, sending the packed Estadio Azteca into delirium. The eruption of celebrations was so intense that seismic sensors recorded ground vibrations coinciding with the strike.
Raul Jimenez added a second goal minutes later to seal a memorable victory for the co-hosts.
While Mexico has now reached the Round of 16 for the first time since the 2018 World Cup, the team’s last appearance beyond that stage came in 1986, when it advanced to the quarterfinals at the home World Cup
According to reports, both of Mexico’s goals triggered seismic sensors installed across Mexico City as supporters celebrated in unison. Similar fan-generated vibrations were also recorded during the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Journalist Azucena Uresti reported that Quinones’ opening goal produced a signal that was detected by a city-installed seismograph. The Raspberry Shake monitoring station located near Estadio Azteca recorded an artificial vibration at the exact moment the goal was scored, underscoring the scale of the celebrations.
The jubilant scenes, however, were overshadowed by tragedy. Mexico City officials said four people died during the celebrations – three from asphyxiation and another from cardiac arrest following an epileptic seizure.
Mexico will now turn its attention to a Round of 16 clash against England on Sunday, July 5. Mexico, expectedly, will enjoy the backing of a passionate home crowd at Estadio Azteca as it looks to extend its remarkable World Cup run.
Sunday’s encounter with England offers the hosts an opportunity to end another decades-long wait and continue their memorable campaign.