The governing body of soccer in North America is closely monitoring the ongoing violence in Mexico while the international tournament progresses. CONCACAF, responsible for overseeing soccer in North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, emphasized on Monday that the safety and security of all Champions Cup participants is its top priority.
In the 27-club tournament, two Canadian teams are still competing. Atlético Ottawa from the Canadian Premier League (CPL) is scheduled to play against Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Nashville SC on Tuesday, while the Vancouver Whitecaps will host Costa Rican team C.S. Cartaginés on Wednesday.
Should Vancouver and Ottawa advance in this round, they will face MLS teams next. If they progress further, they might have the opportunity to play against Liga MX clubs in Mexico during the quarterfinals.
In the initial round of the Champions Cup, CPL teams Vancouver FC and Forge were pitted against clubs from Liga MX, Mexico’s top-tier league, but unfortunately, both Canadian teams were eliminated in their two-legged series.
Due to violence erupting in various regions of Mexico after the death of a prominent drug cartel leader on Sunday, tourists and locals are advised to stay indoors. CONCACAF stated that they are closely monitoring the situation and maintaining communication with Liga MX, its clubs, and local authorities. Updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
Following the Mexican army’s killing of Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, several high-profile soccer matches were postponed on Sunday. Cartel members engaged in violent acts, including burning vehicles and blocking highways in multiple states.
Mexico is set to co-host the FIFA World Cup with Canada and the United States, commencing on June 11.