The Mexican national football team has announced that they will continue with their scheduled friendly match against Iceland in Querétaro despite concerns regarding increased violence in the country following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as 'El Mencho', a notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. This decision was made public by the Mexican Football Federation on Monday, reiterating their commitment to the match.

The match is especially significant as it serves as part of the Mexican team's preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, where they will compete against teams from South Africa, South Korea, and a yet-unknown European team in the group stages. The Mexican squad, under the direction of coach Javier Aguirre, will be training in Querétaro ahead of the match, focusing on integrating local league players, as it is not a FIFA date.

Despite the backdrop of violence, the Mexican team aims to use this game to build team cohesion and prepare for the World Cup. The rivalry and excitement around international fixtures often create a unique atmosphere, even amidst national challenges. Thus, the importance of the match extends beyond the game itself, reflecting the resilience of the sporting community in Mexico during tumultuous times.