Mexico’s coach Javier Aguirre has assured that safety measures are in place for the upcoming friendly match against Iceland in Queretaro this Wednesday, addressing recent security concerns following the death of a notorious cartel leader. Aguirre stated that the Mexican Football Federation (FMF) has guaranteed the safety of everyone attending the match.
“We’re mindful of the current situation,” Aguirre commented prior to the game at Estadio Corregidora. “The FMF has promised me that everyone’s safety is a priority.”
The tension arose last Sunday after the killing of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” who led the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generación. His death led to escalating violence across the country, resulting in the postponement of Liga MX Femenil matches involving Queretaro, Juarez FC, and Chivas vs. America.
In the aftermath, cartel members engaged in highway blockades and vehicle burnings across multiple states in Mexico. Despite the unrest and doubts surrounding the friendly match, sources informed ESPN on Monday that the game is set to proceed as planned.
“We are here, feeling calm and relaxed, focusing on training and discussing sports,” Aguirre expressed. “That’s the sentiment I want to convey to the fans as a football coach.”
Tickets for the match have sold out, with an expected attendance of over 30,000 at the stadium. Aguirre is also looking forward to a friendly against Portugal in Mexico City on March 28, although the federation announced they are currently assessing the situation.
The Portuguese federation indicated it is “closely monitoring the delicate situation currently unfolding in Mexico.”
As preparations continue for the upcoming World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada this summer, FIFA has requested updates on Mexico’s security status.
On Tuesday, FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his full confidence in Mexico’s readiness for the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing that local authorities are well-prepared to ensure safety and order during the tournament.
“While we are actively assessing the current scenario in Mexico, I want to assure everyone that we have complete trust in Mexico, in its president, [Claudia] Sheinbaum, and in the relevant authorities. We believe everything will proceed smoothly,” Infantino stated from Barranquilla, Colombia, during the unveiling of the Colombian Football Federation’s hotel.
“Mexico is a remarkable soccer nation. Like any other place in the world, incidents happen; we don’t live in isolation. Such events occur, which is why we rely on government, police, and authorities to maintain order and security,” he concluded.