Prior to the game with Excelsior, the Philips Stadium was completely dedicated to Mexico. A life-size atmospheric action on the North stand was one of the highlights, symbolically showing PSV's desire to strengthen ties with the North American football-mad country.
Mexican evening
During and around the match against the Rotterdammers, there were several Mexican activities at Philips Stadium. These were all dedicated to the ambassadorship of Carlos Salcido and Francisco 'Maza' Rodriguez. Both were officially appointed PSV ambassador to Mexico by general manager Toon Gerbrands and Mauricio Torres Córdova Chargé d'Affaires of the Mexican embassy. Salcido attended the appointment and was later loudly applauded by the Philips Stadium. The former players, both still active in their homeland, will play a prominent role in strengthening the relationship between PSV and Mexico.
The pin with which Carlos Salcido was officially sworn in as ambassador of PSV
'Incredibly honored'
After the match, the Mexican defender spoke to several media outlets to express how special he thought the day was. "I am incredibly honored with this appointment. I've had four great years here. Won prizes, played a lot and made memories," Salcido also previously told fans at the stadium. "I'm incredibly proud because I still have a great feeling about PSV and think it's very nice to be able to represent PSV in Mexico now."
Winners action AeroMexico
Besides Salcido, PSV also invited four Mexicans to attend PSV - Excelsior from special airplane seats at the edge of the field. The seats, from partner AeroMexico, were fully equipped and before and after the match the fans were treated to drinks and food. The winners of the promotion made possible by AeroMexico also received PSV shirts and met former PSV players including Salcido.
