In the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0, an unusual sound coming from the stands caught attention.
Medianews.az reports that the source of the sound heard throughout the match on the television broadcast, which caused dissatisfaction among many fans, was initially considered a technical problem. Later, it was revealed that it was the "Matraca" instrument, an integral part of Mexican fan culture.
Many users on social networks discussed the source of the sound and thought it was due to broadcast quality.
Matraca, mainly made of wood and used by hand spinning, is designed to create rhythm. When spun, it produces a high-pitched and clicking sound.
The sound created by the matraca reminded many football fans of the vuvuzela, which became one of the symbols of the 2010 World Cup held in South Africa. Some fans said that the vuvuzela effect in the 2026 World Cup could now be repeated with the matraca.