The CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal clash between Honduras and Mexico ended in controversy after a home fan threw a beer can that struck Mexico’s head coach, Javier Aguirre, leaving him visibly injured. Following the incident, FIFA President Gianni Infantino issued a strong statement addressing the situation and calling for action to prevent future occurrences.

The troubling moment unfolded immediately after the final whistle in Honduras‘ 2-0 victory. As Aguirre was leaving the field, objects were hurled from the stands, with one beer can hitting the coach on the head, causing a cut that bled profusely. Reflecting on the incident, Infantino expressed his dismay in an official FIFA statement:

“I was shocked and saddened to see the horrible incident where an object struck Mexico’s head coach, Javier Aguirre, at the end of their match against Honduras. There is no place for violence in football, neither on nor off the field. This type of incident has no place in our sport or in our society.”

Infantino emphasized the importance of safety for everyone involved in football, urging swift and effective measures to uphold the integrity of the sport. “Without exception, in football, all players, coaches, referees, and fans must have the necessary safety to enjoy our sport. I urge the relevant authorities to ensure this is upheld at all levels,” ended FIFA statement.

With the second leg set to take place on Tuesday at the Nemesio Diez Stadium in Mexico, CONCACAF has confirmed the opening of an investigation into the incident. The governing body is expected to implement strict measures, including potential bans, to ensure similar incidents do not recur.

Honduras Federation issues controversial response

Following the attack on Javier Aguirre, the Honduran Football Federation (FFH) released a statement condemning the incident but stirred further controversy by justifying the actions of the fan involved. The FFH alleged that Aguirre had provoked the crowd with obscene gestures during the game, shifting some of the blame onto the Mexican coach.

“The Honduran Football Federation (FFH) deeply regrets and strongly condemns the isolated actions of a small group of fans who do not represent the respectful behavior of our supporters as a whole,” the statement began. However, it quickly pivoted to criticize Aguirre’s conduct:

“Likewise, the FFH categorically rejects the words, obscene gestures, and provocative attitudes displayed by the Mexican national team coach, who insulted and provoked Honduran fans from the beginning of the match. Such behavior is entirely unacceptable in football, as it represents clear provocation, incitement to violence, and a lack of respect for fans watching the game in the stadium or on television,” wrote the FFH in the statement.

The FFH called on CONCACAF to enforce its regulations and impose sanctions on Aguirre, describing his behavior as “serious misconduct unbecoming of a public figure who should set an example of respect and sportsmanship.”