In Borderland, Mexico Is Favorite World Cup Team, Not US Squad

The World Cup brings out soccer fans from all over the world.

But there’s no question, here in the Borderland, on this side of the border, the allegiance is to Mexico and not the U.S.

ABC seven viewer, Johnny Anaya writes, “Why do you guys make a big deal about Mexico’s soccer team? I thought we were living in the U.S.A. I would want to hear news and sports that affect the U.S. not Mexico.”

The World Cup is a big money maker from paraphenalia to sponsorships.

And just like Johnny pointed out, ABC-7 has noticed here in El Paso, those dollars are being spent rooting for Mexico.

Earlier this week, at Hiney’s bar folks wearing green jerseys and signs shining bright were all in support of Mexico as they played France.

“I’ve got Mexican blood that’s why… I’ve got Mexican blood,” said one patron.

A few days later, we went back to Hiney’s.

A noticeable difference as not a big crowd gathered to see the U.S. vs Slovenia.

“I’m not a soccer person, I’m football of course, like most Americans…but I think it’s great that people are watching it,” said patron, Julie Black.

And a lack of fans for the sport in the U.S. may be the reason why Mexican fans are a little louder.

The sport is a way of life across the border.

“In Mexico the life is all around a soccer ball. So, you go outside to the streets and play all day after school,” said Salvador Mercado.

He’s played soccer professionally in Mexico and now in the U.S, he’s teaching his passion to a younger generation.

Another reason there is not more support for United States soccer is its history in this country but Mercado says that may change this year.

“Right now in 2010, in South Africa at the World Cup, they got a really good team,” said Mercado.

He says he isn’t surprised by billboards on I-10 where even Budweiser’s rooting for Mexico!

“We got like 20 million of latin people right here in the U.S.maybe more…and so, I think that’s a good market for big companies, ” said Mercado.

And for smaller businesses as well, no matter what your allegiance and whether you show your pride much louder for Mexico.

U.S businesses are just as excited about the month long World Cup.

The U.S. will play their next match against Algeria on Wednesday.

Mexico’s next matchup is next Tuesday against Urugay.