The Mexican national soccer team gets an uplifting goodbye from the President – Level 2

The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, recently held a special ceremony for the national soccer team, known as El Tri. She encouraged the players to represent Mexico with pride at the World Cup. During the event, held in southern Mexico City, Sheinbaum handed the national flag to the team’s veteran goalie, Guillermo Ochoa. This will be Ochoa’s sixth World Cup, showcasing his long career.

At the ceremony, Sheinbaum asked the team to pledge to honor the flag, which represents the country’s independence and pride. The team responded enthusiastically. Sheinbaum expressed her belief that the team would inspire many Mexicans with their dedication and hard work.

She took a photo with the team and officials, ending with a cheer for Mexico. The national team did not have such a ceremony for the 2022 World Cup, but this tradition has now returned. Mexico’s team will play the first match of the World Cup against South Africa at the famous Estadio Azteca. This match is significant as it repeats the opening match from 16 years ago, played in South Africa.

In Group A, Mexico will also face South Korea and the Czech Republic. As a co-host of the tournament, Mexico will welcome several matches, sharing this honor with Canada and the United States. This exciting event brings countries together, highlighting the global love for soccer.

Bridging words

These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?

Time to discuss

• Why do you think ceremonies like this are important for a national team?
• How can sports events like the World Cup unite people from different countries?
• What qualities do you think are important for a team to succeed in a big tournament?

Let’s Write

Answer the following questions in one paragraph

• Describe how the sendoff ceremony might motivate the players.
• What impact does hosting part of the World Cup have on Mexico?