Mexico’s long-awaited World Cup triumph turned tragic when two football fans died during celebrations in Mexico City. After defeating Ecuador 2-0 at Mexico City Stadium to reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in 40 years, thousands gathered near the Angel of Independence monument to celebrate. The crowd swelled across Hamburgo and Lancaster streets, leading to a fatal crush that claimed two lives.

According to a statement from the Mexico City Health Secretariat, emergency medical teams arrived quickly and attempted resuscitation, but a 44-year-old man and a 19-year-old woman were pronounced dead from asphyxiation. The incident cast a shadow over what was meant to be a night of national joy, leaving the football community in mourning.

Despite the tragedy, Mexico’s team continues its World Cup campaign, preparing for a round-of-16 match against the winner of the England–DR Congo fixture, also scheduled at Mexico City Stadium.