Some members of the Portuguese national team believe the friendly match scheduled against Mexico on March 28, 2026 should not be played in Mexico due to ongoing security concerns, sources say. The game was planned as part of the reopening of the newly renovated Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, a venue also set to host matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The discussions around the fixture’s location have emerged against a backdrop of recent unrest in Mexico, where violence surged following the death of Nemesio Oseguera, also known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The federal operation that killed him triggered retaliatory attacks, including road blockades and armed clashes in areas such as Jalisco and surrounding states. This has drawn international attention and led governments and organizations to reassess travel and safety protocols.

Amid the instability, the Portuguese Football Federation has been closely monitoring the security situation and is evaluating whether it is feasible for the national team and its delegation to travel to Mexico for the friendly. An alternative being considered is staging the match in the United States, where there is also a significant Mexican supporter base.

The original plan was for the fixture to serve as a high-profile celebration of the stadium’s reopening, with many tickets already sold. However, all parties involved including the Portuguese federation, the Mexican Football Federation, and government authorities will need to analyze whether it is possible or prudent to change the venue in light of the current security landscape.

Mexican officials have maintained that safety measures are in place and that the World Cup, for which Mexico is a co-host, will proceed as planned, while closely monitoring developments related to the unrest.