Two Mexican soccer fans were crushed to death in Mexico City after a massive World Cup celebration spiraled into tragedy following the host nation’s historic win.
The victims, a 19-year-old woman and a 44-year-old man, died of asphyxiation Wednesday as more than one million fans flooded the streets to celebrate Mexico’s dramatic victory over Ecuador, according to the city’s health ministry.
Authorities have not confirmed reports of a possible third death.
The chaos erupted after Mexico defeated Ecuador to secure its first World Cup knockout win since 1986, sending the co-host nation into the round of 16 and setting off wild scenes across the capital.
Much of the celebration centered around the Angel of Independence monument and the city’s famous Reforma Avenue, where seas of fans packed shoulder-to-shoulder, waved Mexican flags, jumped, screamed and lit up the night with fireworks.
What began as a euphoric national party soon turned deadly as the enormous crowds became dangerously packed.
Families, friends and die-hard supporters had poured into streets, bars, parking lots and makeshift fan zones to honor Mexico’s undefeated World Cup run. Videos from the capital showed thousands of fans cheering, bouncing in unison and tossing people into the air as the roar of the crowd echoed through the city.
But amid the frenzy, two fans were unable to escape the crush.
The deadly celebration came after one of Mexico’s biggest soccer moments in decades. The national team had suffered seven straight exits at the same stage from 1994 to 2018 and failed to advance past the group stage in 2022.
Now, Mexico is headed deeper into the tournament with momentum — and with the hopes of a nation riding on every match.
Mexico is scheduled to play again Sunday at home against the winner of Wednesday’s match between England and Congo.
The team has been nearly unbeatable at the iconic Azteca Stadium, where it holds an undefeated record across 10 World Cup matches. Mexico has suffered just two official losses at the venue, with its last coming in a World Cup qualifying defeat to Honduras on Sept. 6, 2013.
With the win over Ecuador, Mexico extended its unbeaten streak to 12 games, dating back to a friendly loss against Paraguay in November.
The victory also marked a major milestone for the region. Mexico became the first CONCACAF team to knock out a CONMEBOL side in a World Cup knockout match, ending South America’s dominance in the previous five meetings.
But the historic night will now be remembered for both national glory and heartbreak, as a celebration meant to unite millions ended with two fans dead in the streets.
