Concerns are growing around one of Mexico’s World Cup host cities after a surge of violence linked to the death of a notorious cartel leader. For Bafana Bafana and their supporters, the situation has created unexpected uncertainty around the structure of their group matches for 2026.
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Trouble flares in Guadalajara
The Mexican government recently confirmed the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known globally as El Mencho, a powerful cartel figure whose name has long been tied to organised crime. His death sparked fresh violence in the city of Guadalajara, prompting authorities to suspend several football fixtures as security forces scrambled to regain control.
Guadalajara is one of three Mexican cities chosen to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, along with Mexico City and Monterrey. Four matches are scheduled to take place at Estadio Akron, a venue well known in Mexican football culture and a favourite among local fans.
The unrest has raised a new question in global football circles. Can Guadalajara still guarantee safety for visiting teams and supporters?
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Fifa keeps a close eye on developments
Security analysts have already weighed in. One expert, Alberto Guerrero Baena, noted that FIFA is unlikely to strip Guadalajara of hosting rights immediately. Instead, the global governing body may push for stronger, more visible security measures in the coming months.
Still, losing its hosting status remains a possibility if the situation does not stabilise. And that potential shake-up has direct implications for Bafana Bafana’s World Cup group.
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How Bafana’s group could be affected
South Africa will open their tournament against Mexico in Mexico City, so their opening match is safe from disruption. The uncertainty lies with other teams in the group whose matches were set for Guadalajara.
South Korea’s group opener was meant to be played there, and their highly anticipated clash against Mexico has also been scheduled for the city. A major fixture between Uruguay and Spain, one of the headline games of the early rounds, is also pencilled in for Guadalajara on 26 June.
Even beyond Bafana’s group, matches involving Colombia and one of New Caledonia, Jamaica or DRC are part of the venue’s calendar.
If the city is ruled unfit to host games, FIFA would face the complicated task of relocating multiple matches, adjusting logistics and possibly reshaping travel routes for teams and supporters.
Why this matters to South Africa
Even though Hugo Broos’ men would not be directly moved, changes to the schedule could alter the rhythm of the group and affect opponents’ travel fatigue, rest periods and preparation. Those variables may seem small, but at a World Cup every detail counts.
For South African supporters hoping for a smooth tournament and a strong Bafana run, the situation in Mexico is now an unexpected subplot worth watching.
Looking ahead
The build-up to the World Cup is already filled with excitement, strategy and speculation. Mexico’s security challenges have now added another layer to that conversation, highlighting how global events can ripple into the sporting world.
For now, the football world waits to see whether Guadalajara can stabilise and retain its hosting role. And for Bafana Bafana, the hope is that any changes to the group structure do not disrupt their 2026 ambitions.
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Source: Soccer Laduma
Featured Image Source: Jesse Kelechi on X
