Rabat – Several football matches in Mexico were postponed after violent unrest broke out following the assassination of Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation cartel.
A match between Necaxa vs Querétaro in Mexico was suspended as Cartel members where shooting into the stadium 😳
pic.twitter.com/1mDrdwBUSH— Football Fans Tribe 🇳🇬 ⚽ (@FansTribeHQ) February 23, 2026
The 59‑year‑old was killed by the Mexican army during an operation on Sunday, sparking chaos across multiple states.
Armed groups blocked roads and set fire to supermarkets, banks, and vehicles, especially in the city of Guadalajara, which is set to host the 2026 World Cup. Hometo 1.4 million people, the city is set to stage four group‑stage matches this summer, including Uruguay vs. Spain at Estadio Akron on June 26.
Liga MX announced that Monday’s match between Queretaro and FC Juarez would be rescheduled, urging fans not to attend the stadium.
In the women’s top flight, Club Necaxa’s game against Queretaro was briefly halted when players ran off the pitch amid unrest, though play resumed and Necaxa won 2-1.
The disruption extended to the second tier, with Liga Expansion MX postponing Jabia Brava vs. Correcaminos and Tapatio vs. Tlaxcala.
On Sunday night, Liga MX Femenil also suspended the Guadalajara derby between Chivas and Club América at Estadio Akron.
Jalisco governor Pablo Lemus ordered public transport, in‑person classes, and mass events to be suspended through Monday.
Authorities said they had not received direct communication from FIFA, but the timing of the violence has raised questions about security ahead of the World Cup in Mexico, as well as in co‑host nations the United States and Canada.
Liga MX issued a statement confirming the postponements: “The BBVA MX League announces that the match between Querétaro and FC Juarez, corresponding to matchday 7 of the 2026 Clausura Tournament, scheduled to be played today at 7:00 p.m. at La Corregidora Stadium, will be rescheduled with a date and time to be determined.”
Querétaro added, “We kindly ask you not to come to the stadium. The new date and time will be announced in due course.”
The unrest shows the challenge of ensuring safety for fans and players in a country preparing to host the world’s biggest sporting event, expected to welcome millions of visitors.
