Mexico braces for celebrations, protests as World Cup opens amid tensions

Escalating protests and social tensions in Mexico’s capital have threatened to derail FIFA World Cup celebrations on the eve of the opening ceremony, with protesters effectively blocking off access to the plaza set to host the country’s main fan celebrations. Mexico, jointly hosting the global tournament with the United States and Canada, kicks off festivities on Thursday with a star-studded event and the home team taking on South Africa in the opening game in Mexico City. …