At least two people have died during massive celebrations in Mexico City after Mexico’s national team secured qualification for the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
City authorities confirmed that a 19-year-old woman and a 44-year-old man died from suffocation as huge crowds flooded the streets following Mexico’s 2-0 victory over Ecuador.
Officials said investigations into the incident are ongoing, while local media reports have suggested that a third person may also have died, although this has not been officially confirmed.
The victory marked a historic milestone for the Mexican national team, ending a 40-year wait for a World Cup knockout-stage victory and triggering jubilant celebrations across the country’s capital.
Zebra News reports that thousands of football fans poured into major streets and public squares in Mexico City to celebrate the memorable achievement, creating overcrowded conditions in several locations.
Mexico will now shift attention to the Round of 16, where they are set to face either England or the Democratic Republic of Congo as they continue their quest for World Cup glory on home soil.
Authorities have urged the public to celebrate responsibly as the tournament progresses and investigations into the fatalities continue.
