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Mexico host the tournament again.

Outside the celebratory atmosphere, however, Mexico City remained divided.

The tournament, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada, has been preceded by weeks of social unrest. Groups ranging from teachers to families searching for relatives missing in the drug war have used the global spotlight to press their demands.

At least six demonstrations were scheduled on Thursday, highlighting the contrast between celebration and discontent. Fresh murals, upgraded trains and a renovated stadium showcased efforts to welcome visitors, while steel barricades protected businesses along major avenues from possible unrest.

Avelina Cruz Miguel, an elementary school teacher from Oaxaca, said she had travelled to Mexico City to demand better pay after 22 years in the profession. The World Cup, she said, offered a chance to raise the issue “at an international level.”

Teachers had also spent days camped near the city’s central Zocalo square, forcing authorities to barricade parts of the area on the eve of the tournament and raising concerns that fans would be unable to gather there.

The World Cup has also sparked criticism over spending and ticket prices. Some residents argued that money had been directed toward beautification projects rather than longstanding infrastructure problems. Others complained that ticket costs put the event out of reach for many locals, with some fans telling Reuters they paid more than $3,000 for seats.

“FIFA is only interested in profit,” said Jonathan Cordoba, 33, while waiting to enter the stadium. Still, he said he had no regrets: “It’s the passion.”