LISBON — The Portuguese soccer federation announced on Tuesday that it is keeping a close eye on the rising violence in Mexico ahead of their scheduled friendly match against the Mexican national team in March.
The federation stated it is “closely monitoring the sensitive situation currently unfolding in Mexico” following the recent killing of the nation’s most powerful drug lord by military forces last Sunday. This incident has led to a spike in violence and heightened tensions throughout the country.
– World Cup host cities alert Congress about security concerns
The World Cup warm-up match is set for March 28 at the revamped Azteca Stadium, which will host the World Cup’s opening game between Mexico and South Africa on June 11.
Mexico is also scheduled to face Iceland in a friendly on Wednesday in Queretaro. The Icelandic soccer federation expressed confidence that the match will proceed as planned.
The Portuguese federation expressed gratitude for the invitation to participate in the reopening ceremony of the renovated stadium but added that “the recent developments necessitate ongoing evaluation of the conditions” the national team and its delegation will face.
It further stated that it will heed the recommendations of the Portuguese government and maintain close communication with the Mexican soccer federation.
“Any decision will be based on continuous monitoring, in close collaboration with the government and in coordination with the Mexican Football Federation, with whom the Portuguese Football Federation maintains excellent institutional relations and regular communication,” the statement noted.
“The safety of players, coaching staff, and fans is the top priority for the Portuguese Football Federation, guiding all assessments and decisions regarding the match,” the organization emphasized.
At her daily briefing, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum assured that there is “no risk” for fans attending the World Cup.
In a statement released late Tuesday, the Mexican Football Federation expressed a “mutual desire” to hold the match on March 28, confirming that “for now, the date and location of the game remain unchanged.”
Mexico’s coach Javier Aguirre remarked that the Portuguese federation’s reaction is “understandable.” He added, “They are entitled to evaluate the circumstances frequently. Let’s wait and see, but I believe the match will proceed without any issues.”