'Festival Turns Tragedy': 4 Dead Amid Crowd of 1 Million... 'Tragedy' After Mexico's First Victory in 40 Years

*This content was translated by AI.

The World Cup celebration turned into a tragedy.

Reuters reported on the 1st (local time) that "a large crowd gathered during Mexico's World Cup victory celebrations, and four people died among them."

Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 in the Round of 32 match of the 2026 FIFA North American World Cup. As a co-host alongside the United States and Canada, Mexico was placed in Group A along with South Korea, led by coach Hong Myung-bo Jeon (CEO), Czech Republic, and South Africa. After winning all three group matches, Mexico continued its winning streak into the Round of 32.

Notably, this marked Mexico's first World Cup tournament victory in 40 years since reaching the quarterfinals at the 1986 World Cup held in Mexico.

It was a historic victory. Mexico City, the capital, was immediately swept up in a festive atmosphere. However, the joy did not last long. Amid a crowd of approximately 1 million people flooding the streets, four lives were lost. Three of them died from suffocation.

According to reports, individuals who lost consciousness were repeatedly found along Paseo de la Reforma, a major avenue in downtown Mexico City where large screens were set up to broadcast the Mexico-Ecuador match. A 19-year-old woman and a 44-year-old man received emergency treatment but died from suffocation. A 48-year-old woman was also rushed to a hospital but ultimately died from suffocation. Subsequently, Mexican health authorities announced that an additional death occurred among a man in his 30s due to severe seizures and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Mexico City had already implemented various measures to prevent safety accidents. According to Reuters, Mexico City banned the sale of alcohol on days when the national team played matches over the past few weeks. It also controlled vehicle traffic, increased the number of large screens to disperse crowds, and widened the spacing between screens. However, these efforts were insufficient to contain the massive crowd of 1 million people.

Mexican media outlet El Universal reported that "confusion broke out due to fireworks, and people began to flee. In the process, some fell and were trampled by others."

Indeed, videos circulated on social media showing many people trapped in the crowd and unable to move near Paseo de la Reforma. Additionally, at a nearby location, some fans were captured exchanging punches and kicks.

A Mexican citizen present at the scene told Reuters, "Mexico's victory is joyful, but I do not approve of celebrations that go too far. People should not cause harm to others," expressing concern.

President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that the causes of this incident would be thoroughly investigated and that existing safety measures may need to be reviewed ahead of the upcoming Round of 16 match against England.

The Round of 16 match between Mexico and England is scheduled to take place on the 6th at the Mexico City Stadium. Given that these two teams are widely regarded as having the most fervent global support, safety concerns have been raised.

President Sheinbaum once again emphasized safety, stating, "Citizens must celebrate responsibly."

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*This content was translated by AI.