Women's Football Match Suspended Amid Gunfire Reports in Mexico
A women's football match in Mexico was abruptly suspended on Sunday after reports of gunfire near the stadium, causing both teams to flee the pitch for safety. The incident occurred during a Liga MX Femenil match between Club Necaxa and Queretaro Femenil at Victoria Stadium, where players and officials heard loud noises resembling gunshots.
Panic and Evacuation at Victoria Stadium
The referee halted the match immediately, and players rushed to the dressing rooms as panic spread among the 400 spectators present. Authorities later confirmed that the sounds came from car exhaust pipes at a nearby event, not actual gunfire. The delay lasted approximately 15 minutes before calm was restored and the match resumed for its second half.
Background of Cartel Violence
This incident unfolded against a backdrop of heightened violence across 20 Mexican states, following the military's killing of notorious drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho'. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), which he led, has been responsible for widespread unrest including road blockades and attacks on supermarkets, banks, and vehicles.
El Mencho died in custody on Sunday after being captured by Mexican special forces in Tapalpa, Jalisco. He sustained serious injuries during a firefight between his bodyguards and military commandos before succumbing during transport to Mexico City. The CJNG is recognized as one of Mexico's most powerful drug trafficking organizations, playing a significant role in smuggling methamphetamine and fentanyl to the United States.
Impact on Football Schedule
The security concerns have prompted multiple changes to Mexico's football calendar. Liga MX announced the rescheduling of Monday's men's match between Queretaro and FC Juarez. Additionally, the women's league match between Guadalajara and Club America has been postponed, along with two men's second-tier matches involving Jaiba Brava versus Correcaminos and Tapatio versus Tlaxcala.
Mexico is preparing to host 13 matches across three cities during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including games in Guadalajara, which has experienced recent violence. The tournament opener is scheduled for June 11 in Mexico City, with millions expected to travel to Mexico, the United States, and Canada for the event.
International Travel Warnings
Global Affairs Canada has issued advisories urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel to numerous Mexican regions due to high levels of violence and organized crime. Similarly, the United States Department of State has advised Americans to shelter in place, with reports indicating some tourists have become trapped after crossing the border.
The Mexico national football team continues with preparations for a scheduled friendly match against Iceland on Wednesday at Estadio Corregidora in central Mexico, though security measures are being intensified nationwide.
