Source
This primary source is a news article from November 11th, 2016, that was published by NBC Miami. The article discusses a game between the USMNT and Mexico that occurred just days after Donald Trump won the presidential election. The match in Columbus, Ohio, was played amid a charged political atmosphere. Trump had campaigned on stopping immigration from Mexico, and the state of Ohio played a key role in his victory. Associated Press reporter Mitch Stacy observed the rivalry now unfolding “against a backdrop of amped-up political vitriol provoked by Donald Trump during his successful presidential campaign.”
However, the players themselves were trying to separate politics from the game itself. They believed that, despite the political tensions between the two nations, the game itself would be unaffected. Players such as Alejandro Bedoya spoke out against politicizing the game, saying it was unnecessary. Despite the players trying to defuse tensions, fans were expected to be extra rowdy, but players hoped they would remain civil.
Winning this swing state with 52 percent of the vote was one of the keys to Trump’s victory Tuesday. During a contentious campaign, the billionaire promised to build a wall on the Mexican border to help stem illegal immigration. Even before Trump’s triumph, a raucous, pro-American crowd was expected in Columbus, where the U.S. has beaten El Tri 2-0 in four consecutive home qualifiers. “I certainly think there’s an added layer to this game, given everything that’s gone on the last few months,” U.S. captain Michael Bradley said. “We have total respect for everybody and a real appreciation not just for the Mexican-Americans but for the people from around the world who come and make a new life for themselves in our country.” Players said Thursday they don’t think the political climate will affect the usually dialed-up intensity between the two sides. There is already so much at stake at the beginning of the final round of qualifying, known as the hexagonal. “I would hope not, you know?” midfielder Alejandro Bedoya said. “I know there are people out there who would like to politicize this game, but I don’t see the need for it. It’s a rivalry — U.S. vs. Mexico. It’s nothing more than that. We’re going to try to kick each other’s butt on the field.” Bedoya said he hopes the fans respect the Mexican team, as well.
Stacy, Mitch. 2016. “USA-Mexico Soccer Game Friday Has Added Attention After Donald Trump’s Election Win.” NBC 6 South Florida, November 11. https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/usa-mexico-soccer-game-friday-has-added-attention-after-donald-trumps-election-win/1982415/.