Soccer’s governing body in North America is closely monitoring the escalating violence in Mexico during the ongoing international tournament. The spokesperson for CONCACAF, responsible for overseeing soccer in North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, emphasized the top priority of ensuring the safety and security of all participants in the Champions Cup.
In the 27-club tournament, two Canadian teams are still in contention. Atlético Ottawa from the Canadian Premier League (CPL) is scheduled to play against Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Nashville SC on Tuesday, while the Vancouver Whitecaps will host Costa Rican side C.S. Cartaginés on Wednesday.
Should Vancouver and Ottawa progress to the next round, they would face MLS teams. If they advance further, they might compete against Liga MX teams in Mexico in the quarterfinals.
Notably, CPL teams Vancouver FC and Forge faced Liga MX clubs in the initial round of the Champions Cup but were eliminated in their two-legged series.
Following the recent death of a prominent drug cartel leader in Mexico, tourists and locals in various regions are advised to stay indoors due to the eruption of violence. CONCACAF assured that they are closely monitoring the situation, maintaining communication with Liga MX and local authorities. Updates will be provided as necessary based on ongoing developments.
The Mexican army’s action in killing Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, led to the postponement of four high-level soccer matches on Sunday. The aftermath of his death saw cartel members setting vehicles on fire and blocking highways in multiple states.
Mexico is set to co-host the FIFA World Cup with Canada and the United States, commencing on June 11.