A night of lights and shadows in the Colossus
After more than two years, the doors of the Banorte Stadium reopened. And the party in the stands was total. More than 81 thousand souls filled the remodeled colossus, eager for history.
But on the field, history was written with erased ink. The Mexican National Team tied 0-0 with Portugal. A result that tastes little when the house is full and the heart beats strong.
The initial euphoria in the stands went out like a fire without wood. In the 26th minute, Gonçalo Ramos crashed a ball into Rangel’s post. It was the first wake-up call for a team that seemed lost.
Uncertainty invaded the premises, but time proved right to those who believed in this moment.
The cry for ‘La Hormiga’ and an unfinished casting
The light show at halftime was impressive. But what really electrified the air was the unanimous chorus: “Ant, Ant”. The fans shouted for Armando González.
Javier Aguirre listened. At minute 79, the Chivas forward took the field. And just about… just about… just about… mark. A header that went to the side. A collective stifled sigh.
There were other positive notes. Álvaro Fidalgo had a good first half in his official presentation. And Raúl Rangel in goal seems to be gaining ground.
But today the perfect step of the Tri was cut off. Now they travel to Chicago to face Belgium. It will be the last exam, the definitive casting of ‘Vasco’ Aguirre before making major decisions.
The unexpected visit: Infantino at home
Not even Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, wanted to miss the reopening. Minutes before the game, he went down to the grass with Emilio Azcárraga Jean.
They posed next to a legend: Manuel Negrete, author of one of the most iconic goals right in this stadium.
Infantino is on tour in Mexico. This is their third stop in a week, demonstrating global interest in our football at a key moment.
In the end, the night left a bittersweet feeling. The stage was spectacular, worthy of the great moments. But the team did not get on the same train. The work for Chicago and what’s next… is now.
