The 2010 World Cup got underway early Friday morning as host country South Africa and Mexico kicked off the biggest sporting event on the planet. Edmonton soccer fans gathered bright and early at local bars to take in the action.
"World Cup is always awesome. It's such a good energy. I love it," said soccer fan Zac Farnden.
Jose Rodas says Friday morning's match was too important to miss, so he and the family took the day off.
"I said, 'kids, don't go to school. We're going to go and enjoy the soccer game.' Day off for everybody in the family. It worked out perfect," he said.
Mexico was in the lead during the first half, but South Africa picked up its pace and scored in the second half, but soon after, Mexico tied it up.
Genara Hernandez-Castillo with the Mexican Cultural Society believes it's more than just a game it's a time to celebrate and unite.
"It's something that glues together everyone in Mexico."
The noise from the packed stadium was so loud, at one point viewers could only hear plastic horns blasting.
Excited spectators also poured into bars around lunchtime to watch the match between France and Uruguay, which ended in a tie.
The World Cup runs until July 11th.
With files from Laura Tupper
