Zhipan Sport

Ecuador complain about Mexico fans' hotel noise

Jul 1, 03:30 AM

Ecuador have filed a complaint to World Cup organizers over noisy Mexican fans outside their team hotel ahead of their last-32 match against co-hosts Mexico.

Ecuador's national team has officially lodged a complaint with World Cup organizers, alleging that Mexican fans have been creating persistent noise outside their hotel, disrupting players' rest. The incident comes just days before their crucial last-32 knockout match against co-hosts Mexico, scheduled for Friday. According to Ecuadorian team officials, large groups of Mexican supporters began gathering outside the hotel on Wednesday evening, singing chants, beating drums, and setting off fireworks late into the night. The team repeatedly contacted hotel management and local security, but the noise was not effectively controlled. Ecuador head coach Gustavo Alfaro addressed the issue in a pre-match press conference: "We understand the passion of the fans, but players need adequate rest to prepare for an important match. We hope the organizers will take necessary measures to ensure a fair playing environment." Mexico, as the host nation, is known for its fervent fan base. However, this incident has sparked debate about the boundaries of host fan behavior. FIFA has not yet issued an official statement, but sources indicate that the governing body is in communication with the local organizing committee. Ecuador has performed well in this World Cup, advancing as group runners-up. Mexico, buoyed by home support, won all three group matches. The upcoming clash is one of the most anticipated fixtures of the knockout stage. Noise interference is not unprecedented in World Cup history. Host fans have often used home advantage to create an intimidating atmosphere, but direct disruption targeting a visiting team's hotel is relatively rare. Ecuador's complaint may prompt FIFA to introduce stricter fan conduct regulations. As of this report, the Mexican fan gathering continues, but police have increased patrols around the hotel. Ecuador's team stated they will focus on the match and not be distracted by external factors. The winner of this match will advance to the quarterfinals to face the winner of another knockout tie. Regardless of the outcome, the noise incident has become a controversial topic of this World Cup.