Mexico's Soccer Dreams Blossom in Volcano Craters

Across Mexico, soccer pitches are carved out wherever communities can find space, transforming unlikely locations into fields of dreams. From the edges of towns to highway underpasses and even within a volcano crater, the passion for soccer unites people of all ages. In Monterrey, young Humberto Guadalupe, nicknamed "Messi," practices on a worn community field, fueled by his grandmother's encouragement and aspirations of becoming a professional player.

Further south, near Mexico City, the "Field of the Gods" is nestled inside the crater of the extinct Teoca Volcano. This unique pitch, established over 60 years ago, is surrounded by mist-laden pine trees and orchards. Amateur teams gather here on Sundays, arriving by various modes of transport to partake in matches.

In Xochimilco, players navigate traditional wooden boats along ancient canals to reach some of the city's last natural grass pitches. Located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these fields serve as vital social hubs. However, their existence raises ecological concerns, potentially impacting the habitat of the endangered axolotl salamander.

These diverse settings, from gritty industrial areas to historic chinampas, all share a common thread: communities uniting around soccer. Photographer Raquel Cunha documented these grassroots games over three months, capturing the spirit of amateur soccer across Mexico.