Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has urged fans to avoid heavy drinking and crowded spots if the national team beats England on Sunday in the World Cup round of 16.
Her warning comes after celebrations for Mexico’s last victory left at least four people dead in the capital.
The fatalities occurred near Mexico City’s central Paseo de la Reforma, where about one million people gathered to celebrate Mexico’s 2-0 win over Ecuador in the previous round.
“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,” Ms Sheinbaum said at her regular morning press conference.
She also called on supporters to avoid overcrowded areas, stating that fans and authorities alike share responsibility for ensuring celebrations remain safe.
Three of the victims – a 44-year-old man and two women, aged 19 and 48 – died of suffocation after being crushed in the crowd, authorities confirmed.
Co-hosts Mexico have won all four of their games at this summer’s World Cup without conceding a goal. After recording a 2-0 win over South Africa in their tournament opener, Mexico went on to beat South Korea 1-0 and then Czech Republic 3-0.
They delivered arguably their best performance of the World Cup to beat Ecuador on Tuesday, and now have Thomas Tuchel’s England in their sights.
The game is due to be played at the iconic Azteca Stadium, where Mexico have a proud home record, while England will also have to cope with playing at high altitude.
England are also unbeaten at the World Cup, although they have not always convinced in their first four matches.
After beating Croatia 4-2 in a thrilling opening match, the Three Lions were held to a 0-0 draw by Ghana before battling past Panama 2-0 in their final group fixture.
England looked to be heading out of the World Cup when they trailed DR Congo over well over an hour, only for Harry Kane to score twice in the closing stage of the game to rescue a 2-1 victory for his side.
England are likely to need Kane at his best again if they are to beat Mexico and book their place in the quarter-finals.
