The Ecuadorian Football Federation has lodged a formal complaint with FIFA after approximately 1,000 boisterous Mexican fans gathered outside the team's hotel in Mexico City, creating a disturbance throughout the night. The incident occurred on the eve of the World Cup Round of 16 match between the two nations, Reuters reported.
Local police were eventually dispatched to the scene and dispersed the crowd.
The South American football body expressed its dismay, stating that such behavior is "far removed from the principles of fair play, equality, and unity that the World Cup should embody." They called for "the necessary measures to be taken to ensure the peace and security of players, coaches, and fans."
"We believe that such unsportsmanlike actions should not overshadow the football celebration that unites two brotherly nations. Respect, honest competition, and fair play – these are principles of great importance to the World Cup – and they must continue to be upheld," the complaint further stated.