Amid a wave of violence and tight security measures, Mexico defeats Iceland in a friendly manner

On Thursday, the Mexican national football team defeated its guest, the Icelandic national team, in a friendly match held under tight security measures amid the recent wave of violence following the killing of an influential drug lord.

The Mexican national team, which is hosting the men’s World Cup tournament with America, Canada and Mexico, defeated Iceland 4-0 in a friendly match held in the city of Queretaro.

Heavily armed security forces were deployed and, according to media reports, six security cordons were established around Corregidora Stadium.

“Mexico, through excellent coordination between all parties involved and exemplary behavior of the fans, demonstrated today its ability to organize football matches and provide all the necessary security guarantees,” the Mexican Football Federation said in a statement after the match.

Four months before the start of the World Cup, major unrest erupted in the country after the killing of influential drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” by the Mexican army last Sunday.

Members of the Jalisco New Generation cartel set up roadblocks in several Mexican states, set cars on fire and attacked stores. The military attack and subsequent battles resulted in the deaths of 74 people, including 25 members of the Mexican National Guard.

Before the match in Queretaro, soldiers lined the packed stadium carrying a large Mexican flag. Military music was played, and a minute of silence was observed in honor of the victims.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum pledged to provide security guarantees for fans attending World Cup matches, in light of the recent rise in levels of violence.