Despite Mexico's 3-2 defeat by England in the World Cup last-16, the tournament has been a triumph for Mexican supporters, particularly in Southern California. In Santa Ana's packed bistros, fans waved flags and sang through their disappointment, celebrating their team's unexpected run. For this community, the World Cup became about more than football, uniting supporters and providing joy after a difficult year. Just a year earlier, many Latino neighbourhoods were living through the height of ICE immigration raids, with businesses losing customers and families staying indoors. Los Angeles Times columnist Gustavo Arellano noted the stark contrast, recalling that the same streets were "completely, completely and utterly dead" during the raids. He described the World Cup atmosphere as "catharsis - for Mexicans especially, but for Latinos in general." Fans expressed pride in their community's spirit, with one supporter saying the loss was "a win for our community in Santa Ana."
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