SportFootballFootball fansThe Mirror's David Raven soaked up the atmosphere on the streets of Mexico City as the host nation went out to a 3-2 World Cup defeat against the resilient Three LionsDavid Raven, in Mexico City07:58, 06 Jul 2026The Mexicans were never going down without a fight.‌I watched England’s rollercoaster 3-2 win amid a ferocious wall of noise at Mexico City’s biggest street party.‌Every twist and turn was absorbed by thousands of animated locals, dressed in green shirts and fighting for every decision on the pitch.‌Four huge screens were put up next to the Angel of Independence, Mexico City’s spiritual home for huge football celebrations - three miles from the official FIFA fan zone.After a crowd crush marred celebrations following their win over Ecuador, security had ring-fenced the entire Angel monument area, capping numbers at 25,000.‌Walking up to the screens, you had to pass through four security barriers, where guards tried to confiscate any booze.My wife Annie (who kindly agreed to detour our honeymoon) and I were greeted with a sea of green shirts and Mexican flags.Despite a lightning storm, locals and tourists were singing, dancing and play-fighting with spray foam.‌Ahead of kick-off, Mexicans belted out their fiercely patriotic national anthem, vowing to defend their nation against invaders.But scratch beneath that fire and you find some of the warmest, kindest people on the planet.‌Tonight proved it.We didn’t see any trouble or fights. Barely a drop of booze in sight - just fancy dress, face paint and the biggest fiesta in a generation.‌Every few minutes someone would be launched into the air before being safely caught by a small group of enthusiastic strangers.I spotted around 10 England shirts in front of the screens during the game. They weren’t jeered or taunted. Instead, they were pulled into chants, thrown into the air and swept into the conga line... and the party continued well into the night.For now, Mexico’s World Cup run is over.Article continues belowBut they leave as one of the most impressive hosts the tournament has ever seen.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌England football teamMexico football teamMexicoFIFA World CupFootball fans