By Chalien Dantes

FIFA president Gianni Infantino says plans for World Cup matches in Mexico will go ahead this summer, even as cartel violence has shaken parts of the country in recent days.

His stance comes after the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as El Mencho, who was killed following a targeted operation. The fallout has triggered unrest, with dozens of deaths reported in several regions.

Among the venues still set to host matches is Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, one of the areas affected by the violence. Four matches are scheduled for that city, with others to be played in Mexico City and Monterrey as part of the tournament’s lineup. The first games are set for June 11, while a World Cup playoff featuring Jamaica is also scheduled for March 26.

Despite the tensions, Infantino has remained confident that the fixtures will proceed as planned. However, the situation has already disrupted local football activity, with several domestic matches postponed as authorities respond to the security challenges.