Three Die During Mexico City's Massive World Cup Celebrations

Three people, including a 19-year-old woman, have died after being caught in massive crowds celebrating Mexico's 2-0 victory over Ecuador in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage in Mexico City.

The Mexico City Health Authority said on Wednesday that the victims a 19-year-old woman, a 48-year-old woman and a 44-year-old man died from suffocation after emergency responders attended to them at different locations along Paseo de la Reforma, where large crowds had gathered following Tuesday night's victory.

Health officials said emergency personnel found the three victims unconscious and administered first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before transporting them to hospital.

Despite medical efforts, all three later died.

Authorities said the victims were subsequently identified by their families.

According to the Mexico City government, more than one million people poured into the streets particularly, around the Angel of Independence monument to celebrate Mexico's first World Cup knockout-stage victory since 1986.

The celebrations continued late into the night, with fireworks lighting up the city's skyline after the final whistle.

Before the match, Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada had advised supporters hoping to gather around the Angel of Independence to consider alternative viewing locations because of the already overwhelming crowds.

Following confirmation of the deaths, Brugada extended condolences to the bereaved families.

"My most sincere condolences to the families of those who lost their lives," the mayor said, adding that the city would provide support to the affected families.

In a separate message on social media, she urged football supporters to celebrate responsibly.

"Let us always celebrate with responsibility, care and empathy."

Mexico's victory over Ecuador secured the country's place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Their next opponents will depend on the outcome of the match between England and DR Congo.

The tragedy unfolded in one of the world's largest metropolitan areas, where more than 20 million people live, underscoring the challenges of managing massive public celebrations during major sporting events.