The Mexico versus South Korea match on Tuesday set a new benchmark in Mexican World Cup viewership, drawing an average audience of 25.5 million, according to FIFA Media. This made it the most-watched World Cup broadcast in Mexico during the 21st century, a notable achievement given the fixture involved a less traditional opponent for Mexico.

The origins of this heightened interest trace back to a critical moment at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. Heading into the final group-stage matches, Mexico faced Sweden needing to avoid elimination, while Germany, the defending champions, required a win to progress. South Korea, already eliminated, was widely expected to offer little resistance to Germany. However, in a surprising upset, South Korea defeated Germany 2-0, marking the first time since 1938 that Germany failed to advance to the knockout rounds.

At the same time, Mexico was trailing Sweden 0-3 with less than ten minutes remaining. Many Mexican fans shifted their attention to the Germany-South Korea match, which was tied. South Korea’s victory ensured Sweden and Mexico advanced, a result that was met with appreciation from the Mexican team and supporters alike. This incident forged a lasting bond between the two nations rooted in South Korea’s decisive role in Mexico’s World Cup progression.

Since then, the relationship between Mexican and South Korean football communities has evolved into a broader cultural connection. During international tournaments, fans from both countries have been seen celebrating together in host cities and fan zones, sharing music and dance across cultural lines. Social media has widely circulated footage of these moments, highlighting a “carnival atmosphere” that transcended the sport’s competitive nature.

Observers have noted how this shared experience temporarily bridged social and cultural divides, including those within immigrant communities. A Korean-American recalling the 2018 tournament described being thanked in the streets by Hispanic neighbors, underscoring how a football match fostered a rare, unifying celebration amid usual social tensions.

The enduring appreciation expressed by Mexican supporters towards South Korea’s 2018 victory illustrates a unique friendship in international sport. This connection is credited with elevating the recent Mexico-South Korea match to unprecedented viewership levels, reflecting a bond that extends well beyond the football field.