Mexico president warns fans after fatal crush kills four during World Cup celebrations

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has issued a public safety warning to fans ahead of Mexico’s World Cup round-of-16 match against England at the Azteca Stadium on Sunday, after at least four people were killed in a crowd crush during celebrations following the team’s previous victory.

The fatalities occurred near Mexico City’s Paseo de la Reforma, where approximately one million supporters gathered to celebrate Mexico’s 2-0 win over Ecuador. Three of the victims — a 44-year-old man and two women aged 19 and 48 — died of suffocation after being crushed in the crowd, according to authorities.

“We must avoid alcohol abuse, because whenever there is excessive drinking at these kinds of celebrations, problems can arise, including more violence linked to alcohol,” Sheinbaum said at her regular morning press conference. She also called on supporters to avoid overcrowded areas, stating that fans and authorities alike share responsibility for ensuring celebrations remain safe.

Co-hosts Mexico have been one of the standout teams of the tournament, winning all four of their matches without conceding a single goal. After opening with a 2-0 victory over South Africa, they followed up with wins over South Korea (1-0), Czech Republic (3-0), and Ecuador (2-0) in what many considered their best display of the competition so far.

England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, arrive at the Azteca unbeaten but not without their own scares. After a thrilling 4-2 opening win over Croatia, the Three Lions were held to a goalless draw by Ghana before beating Panama 2-0. Their most dramatic moment came in the last 32, where they trailed DR Congo for over an hour before Harry Kane scored twice late on to seal a 2-1 comeback win.

England will also face the challenge of playing at altitude in Mexico City, a factor that has historically tested visiting sides at the Azteca. Kane’s form in the closing stages of the DR Congo match will give Tuchel’s squad reason for optimism, but Mexico’s defensive record and home advantage make them formidable opponents.