Nations League scandal

Mexico coach insists on handshakes despite blood cut

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre.

(Bild: AFP or licensors)

Terrible scenes in the North and Central American Nations League! During Honduras' 2:0 win against Mexico, guest coach Javier Aguirre was hit on the head by a beer can - and yet, covered in blood, he insisted on shaking hands with his counterpart.

It was seconds after the final whistle: Mexico coach Javier Aguirre was walking towards Honduras coach Reinaldo Rueda after the 2-0 defeat to thank him for the game when a beer can suddenly hit him on the head - and even burst on his head due to the force. It was one of several thrown objects that flew from the stands onto the pitch in his direction.

Nevertheless, Aguirre was not fazed, only flinched for a moment and continued on his way. While the "El Tri" medical team tried to stop the bleeding, the coach thanked almost every member of the opposing team. It was only in the catacombs that he finally received treatment. At the press conference, Aguirre said it was nothing more than that. "That's just soccer."

"Concacaf condemns the act of violence"
The North and Central American association immediately responded in an official statement: "Concacaf strongly condemns the violence that occurred after the final whistle of the Nations League match between the national teams of Honduras and Mexico, in which Mexico's head coach Javier Aguirre was hit by a projectile thrown onto the pitch from the stands. The safety of the teams and fans is a priority for Concacaf. This type of violent behavior has no place in soccer. The incident will now be referred to the Concacaf Disciplinary Commission for further review and investigation."

(Bild: AFP or licensors)

The second leg will take place on Wednesday night in Toluca, Mexico. Aguirre has been national coach of his home country for the third time since July. Mexico will host the World Cup finals in 2026 together with the USA and Canada.