aThe 2026 FIFA World Cup is approaching and national teams are finalizing their preparation schedules. Those games include a high-profile friendly between Portugal and Mexico scheduled for March 28th. The match was designed to celebrate the reopening of the iconic Estadio Banorte, formerly known as Estadio Azteca.
However, growing concerns about the security situation in Mexico have raised questions about whether the match will go ahead as scheduled, as the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) publicly assesses the situation and its impact.
In a statement issued amid recent violence following the death of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, popularly known as “El Mencho,” the FPF confirmed that it is closely monitoring developments and reassessing the circumstances surrounding the delegation’s travel to Mexico.
The federation stressed the need to continually assess the evolving situation before making any final decisions regarding the trip or the match itself.
“The safety of our players, coaching staff, staff and supporters is our absolute priority,” the FPF said, stressing that safety considerations will be the main criterion in deciding whether to proceed with the match.
This does not confirm the cancellation, but emphasizes that Portugal is taking the situation seriously.
Security concerns and sports priorities
Portugal’s reassessment is driven by broader concerns about organized crime and public safety, as well as local unrest. Sources report that violence has erupted in the wake of El Mencho’s death, triggering red alerts in more than 20 Mexican states.
These disruptions included events such as road closures, fires and disruption to air travel, further complicating the logistical environment leading up to the friendly.
The World Cup itself is still several months away, and although the governing body has stressed its confidence in the security arrangements for the tournament’s matches, the urgency of the current situation has urged Portugal to proceed with caution.
The match against Mexico has more significance than just another friendly. This will mark the reopening of one of football’s most historic venues and will provide both teams with valuable game time in the lead-up to the World Cup.
For Portugal, who are expected to travel with top talent including veteran forward Cristiano Ronaldo, the game is also an opportunity to fine-tune their tactics and build cohesion against a strong opponent.
At this time, both sides remain hopeful that the friendly will continue. Mexican officials have stressed the importance of the games and expressed confidence in their safety guarantees, while Portuguese officials are relying on the latest safety assessments before making travel plans.
At a time when interest in international matches is on the rise, the friendly match between Portugal and Mexico has become more than just a prelude. It will now be a test of how the game overcomes safety concerns in the lead-up to the game’s most prestigious event.
