Two flags, one bar: a pub in Mexico City gets ready for the Azteca showdown
On Sunday afternoon, as England and Mexico clash in a World Cup match at the Azteca Stadium, the divide between two football cultures will be evident in a British pub located in the heart of Mexico City.
At The Duke of Lisbon in the Juarez neighbourhood, Mexican chefs prepare fish and chips that nostalgic Brits claim surpass some of the versions found back home. Behind the bar, the venue’s British-Mexican management team is maintaining a friendly atmosphere.
By kick-off time, the pub, featuring a long wooden bar and adorned with copies of the Encyclopaedia Britannica on the walls, will be filled with fans in green and white shirts. Staff will navigate through the crowd, serving pints of bitter alongside plates of chicken tikka masala or bangers and mash. “One side will leave happier than the other,” remarks Mexican co-manager Luis Pena. “We sincerely hope everyone enjoys themselves.”
Soccer in Mexico has its origins in the arrival of British miners during the 19th century, who laid the groundwork for what has evolved into a national passion.
For England, the Azteca holds echoes of past pain.
The last time the national team competed in a World Cup match there in 1986, Argentina’s Diego Maradona scored both the infamous “Hand of God” goal and one of the most remarkable goals ever witnessed, securing the stadium’s status in sporting history.
Initially, staff at the Duke expressed concerns about the potential for English and Mexican fans to be in close proximity during such a high-stakes game. However, English co-manager Alex Mahoney noted that years of friendships between the pub’s British and Mexican clientele have reassured him that the atmosphere will be positive. “I love that Mexicans value British culture; they come here all the time … and we’re here for a reason, we love Mexico,” Mahoney stated. “There is a shared respect that I hope will remain intact on Sunday.”
Duke of Lisbon regular Thomas Scott remains steadfast in his loyalties, even after spending 18 years in Mexico. “I love Mexico, but when it comes to football this weekend, it’s all about England,” he stated. You choose a tribe at the outset and remain loyal to it through both the peaks and the valleys.
SPLIT FAMILIES
Throughout Mexico City, binational families are navigating a delicate balance between rivalry and domestic harmony.
Matt Tyler, a 42-year-old Englishman, and his Mexican wife Iris Hernandez, 46, have spent the week exchanging jokes while their sons, Vincent, 13, and Paolo, 11, navigate the tricky waters. The boys are still considering their loyalties. “We are Switzerland until Sunday,” Hernandez remarked.
However, Tyler has not truly maintained a neutral stance.
I like to believe they would choose the superior team, which we all recognize is England,” he quipped, eliciting objections from his wife.
Like many Brits in Mexico, he has spent the week fielding playful taunts from Mexican friends eager to remind him what awaits if England lose.
His barber offered him a complimentary haircut if England wins, but assured him that he would charge double if Mexico comes out on top.
On Sunday, the family will bring their household tug-of-war to The Duke of Lisbon.
What if England gets eliminated? Tyler has devised a strategy for the remainder of the tournament: “Eliminate the English beer and opt for a Victoria (Mexican beer) along with some tequila.
