By Adegboyega Adeleye
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has appealed to supporters to celebrate responsibly if Mexico defeat England in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash, following the deaths of at least four fans during celebrations after the team’s last victory.
According to Reuters, Sheinbaum urged supporters to avoid excessive alcohol consumption and overcrowded public spaces after celebrations following Mexico’s 2-0 win over Ecuador ended in tragedy in Mexico City.
The incident occurred near the capital’s iconic Paseo de la Reforma, where an estimated one million fans gathered to celebrate the victory that secured Mexico’s place in the knockout stage.
“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 during her regular morning briefing.
The president also called on supporters and authorities to work together to ensure celebrations remain safe if Mexico overcome England in Sunday’s highly anticipated World Cup encounter.
Authorities said three of the victims—a 44-year-old man and two women aged 19 and 48—died from suffocation after being crushed in the massive crowd during the post-match celebrations.
Mexico face England in one of the standout Round of 16 fixtures, with the hosts hoping to reach the World Cup quarter-finals while officials intensify efforts to prevent a repeat of the fatal celebrations that followed the Ecuador victory.
