At least two people have died during large-scale celebrations in Mexico City after Mexico’s national football team secured a place in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to city authorities, a 19-year-old woman and a 44-year-old man lost their lives due to suffocation as thousands of excited fans gathered in different parts of the capital to celebrate the country’s 2-0 victory over Ecuador.
Officials said investigations are ongoing to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the deaths and whether overcrowding played a role in the incident.
Local media reports have also mentioned a possible third fatality, although authorities have not officially confirmed the claim.
The celebrations began shortly after the final whistle as supporters poured into major streets, public squares, and popular gathering spots across Mexico City.
Fans waved flags, sang national songs, danced, and cheered the team’s achievement, creating an atmosphere of excitement and national pride.
Emergency responders and security personnel were deployed to manage the large crowds and ensure public safety.
Mexico’s victory over Ecuador was particularly significant because it ended a 40-year wait for a World Cup knockout-stage victory, making it one of the country’s most memorable football achievements in recent history.
The result sparked emotional reactions among supporters who had long hoped to see the national team make a deep run in the tournament.
Authorities have expressed condolences to the families of the victims and urged citizens to celebrate responsibly during future matches.
Officials also said they would review crowd-control measures to prevent similar tragedies from occurring as the tournament progresses.
With the win, Mexico has advanced to the Round of 16 and will now prepare to face either England or DR Congo in the next stage of the competition.
Fans across the country remain hopeful that the team can continue its impressive World Cup campaign and move closer to lifting football’s biggest prize.
