It's a strange night in World Cup fandom. The US men's national team has its own knockout clash against Belgium on Monday, but all eyes are on Sunday's blockbuster between Mexico and England at Azteca. And here's the kicker: a majority of American fans are throwing their support behind their biggest soccer rival.
A recent poll shows that 58.4 percent of US fans will be cheering for Mexico when they face England at 8 p.m. ET. Only 41.6 percent are pulling for the Three Lions. The numbers reveal a fascinating layer of soccer loyalties, where history and geopolitics collide on the pitch.
Why Root for the Rival?
The US-Mexico soccer rivalry is legendary, but so is the complicated relationship between the US and England. Some fans point to the intimidating atmosphere at Azteca, where Mexico has a formidable home record. As one fan noted, "Mexico is hard to beat in that place. And none of these British players have experienced it."
Others see it as a moment of grudging respect. "Just know, ALL Mexicans will be rooting for Belgium tomorrow but yeah, go ahead and root for Mexico – we deserve all the derision we get," another fan added, acknowledging the rivalry's give-and-take.
Not Everyone Agrees
Not all US fans are on board with backing El Tri. Some argue that historical alliances should take precedence. "England has our backs way more than Mexico ever has. The US and England may not always agree on things but they were there for us after 9/11 and we were there on D Day," one fan wrote, invoking shared history.
Another fan dismissed the idea entirely: "I can’t think of one decent argument to root for Mexico. Yes we got our independence from England 250 years ago, but they are our greatest ally now. Mexico is our biggest rival in soccer and I don’t consider them that much of a friend politically either."
The Real Test of Rivalry
The poll also sparked a deeper question: will Mexican fans return the favor tomorrow when the US takes on Belgium? As one fan put it, "The real question is, how many El Tri fans are rooting for the U.S. tomorrow night? You’ll reveal the answer to this rivalry real fast."
This dynamic echoes recent tensions in the soccer world, including the controversy over Mexico's team rejecting a YouTuber's Rolex gift due to FIFA rules. Meanwhile, England fans have been buzzing with World Cup fever, as seen in Charley Hull's enthusiastic support for the Three Lions.
What's at Stake
For England, this match is a chance to advance toward their first World Cup title in 50 years. For Mexico, it's a chance to prove their mettle on home soil. And for US fans, it's a night of strange bedfellows and fierce allegiances.
Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET. Whether you're rooting for Mexico, England, or just enjoying the drama, this is a World Cup night you won't want to miss.
