FIFA World Cup Qualification Playoffs Open in Guadalajara and Monterrey

FIFA World Cup 2026 international playoff games commenced in Guadalajara and Monterrey, with matches running March 26–31, determining the final six qualifying nations. The playoff staging underscores Mexico's commitment to hosting following post-El Mencho cartel retaliation violence that raised security concerns. President Sheinbaum had visited Guadalajara on March 6 to pledge a 100,000-strong security force deployment and met with FIFA President Infantino by phone. FIFA had confirmed it would not cancel or relocate Mexico's hosting role following Sheinbaum's security assurances.