Chinese and Mexican football players pose for a group photo. [Photo/Hangzhou Daily]

A friendly football match between young Chinese players and a visiting Mexican university team was held at the Hangzhou Normal University campus in Hangzhou on May 21.

The match was part of a China–Iberoamerica youth sports event, during which the Mexican side secured a win in a high-intensity and closely watched game.

Players described the encounter as energetic and competitive, with both sides highlighting the opportunity for direct cultural and sporting exchange. "The match was very intense. Our opponents played at a very high level," said Mexican player Pablo Vargas after the game.

The event also reflected Mexico’s deep-rooted football culture. Football there often begins informally and is played in streets and public spaces, where passion rather than structure first shapes the game. This grassroots enthusiasm, they said, has helped fuel Mexico's strong football identity, including its upcoming role as the first country to host the FIFA World Cup three times.

The exchange program will continue through May 23, with the visiting delegation also scheduled to visit local tech companies such as Alibaba and robotics firm DeepRobotics, as well as cultural venues including a tea expo, showcasing Hangzhou's blend of innovation and tradition.

Players from the two sides compete for the football. [Photo/Hangzhou Daily]