BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Mexico is moving on to the Round of 16 after defeating Ecuador 2-0 Tuesday night in a win-or-go-home World Cup match.
The match, which was delayed by about an hour before kickoff, drew local fans to Vatos Tacos Grill & Cantina in southwest Bakersfield, where supporters packed the restaurant to watch together.
Mexico entered the Round of 32 after winning all three of its group stage matches, while Ecuador advanced out of Group E, setting up a high-stakes knockout match with a trip to the Round of 16 on the line.
While cheers erupted after Mexico scored two first-half goals, many fans said the night was about much more than the final score.
Richard Torres said one of his favorite parts of the World Cup is seeing people come together through soccer.
“It’s amazing to see all the people come together, everybody, whether it’s family, with individuals, people from other countries that are even rooting for Mexico,” Torres said. “It’s amazing.”
Vatos Tacos Grill & Cantina held a watch party for the Mexico vs. Ecuador game on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 (KBAK/KBFX)
Torres said he’s been following the World Cup since 2006 and is proud of what Mexico has accomplished so far.
“It is amazing what they have done so far, and I hope that we can go further,” Torres said. “We know there are a lot of strong teams waiting for us, but for now, we’re just enjoying it, having an awesome time.”
Torres also shared how soccer has impacted his own life, saying the sport helped him through difficult times growing up and eventually became something he could pass on to his children.
“As I started getting into soccer, I realized that would help me a lot,” Torres said. “It helped me with my depression… and now my kids play… and it’s really nice to see that.”
Others said watching the World Cup surrounded by fellow supporters creates an atmosphere they can’t recreate at home.
“This is the best, being around people, being around friends, cheering with other friends,” Domingo Mata said. “That’s what sports is all about.”
Vatos Tacos Grill & Cantina held a watch party for the Mexico vs. Ecuador game on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 (KBAK/KBFX)
For Joel Perez, the tournament is also a chance to celebrate his family’s heritage.
“Once it comes to the World Cup, it’s nothing but feeling very proud of the country that my parents are from,” Perez said.
Josie, who was born in Mexico, said soccer has always been a part of her culture and enjoys seeing people from around the world share in the excitement.
“Football is our culture,” Josie said. “It’s nice to know that everybody else is watching it as well.”
Vatos Tacos Grill & Cantina held a watch party for the Mexico vs. Ecuador game on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 (KBAK/KBFX)
With Mexico advancing to the Round of 16, local supporters said they are looking forward to following the team’s World Cup journey as the tournament continues.
The World Cup continues Wednesday with the United States taking on Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32.