Feb 23 • 07:55 UTC 🇶🇦 Qatar Al Jazeera

Postponement of Matches in Mexico After the Killing of the Leader of the Largest Drug Gang

Football matches in Mexico have been postponed following violence triggered by the death of a major drug gang leader.

Four football matches in Mexico were postponed after violent incidents erupted near Guadalajara, one of the host cities for the 2026 World Cup, following a military operation that resulted in the death of drug lord Nemesio Oseguera, also known as 'El Mencho'. Oseguera, 60, was the mastermind behind the Jalisco New Generation drug cartel and died in custody from injuries sustained during a special forces operation on the Pacific coast of Mexico in the state of Jalisco.

The Mexican Ministry of Defense confirmed the death, which has led to heightened tensions in the region. Reports indicate that two top-tier matches were scheduled for Sunday, one between Querétaro and Juárez in the men's league and another between Chivas and América in the women's league, both of which have been indefinitely postponed. Additionally, two matches in the second division league set for the same day were also canceled due to the escalating violence.

In light of these developments, the Mexican national team is still scheduled to play against Iceland on Wednesday at the Corregidora Stadium in Querétaro, though the situation remains fluid. The postponement of these matches reflects the impact of organized crime on sports in Mexico, highlighting the ongoing struggles the country faces with drug cartel violence and its implications on public safety and major events.

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