Ecuador complain to World Cup organisers over Mexico fans' hotel noise

Ecuador's football federation has lodged a formal complaint with World Cup organisers over disruptive behaviour by Mexico fans outside their team hotel in Mexico City, ahead of their last-32 match against the co-hosts.

Local media reported that approximately 1,000 Mexico supporters gathered outside the hotel on Monday, using noisemakers, pans, and buckets to perform a loud rendition of the Mexican folk song "Cielito Lindo" — a traditional serenade — before police intervened and moved the crowd back.

Federation statement condemns conduct

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) condemned the actions, saying: "This conduct is far removed from the principles of fair play, equality and unity that a football World Cup should represent." The statement added that Ecuador would "always respond on the pitch."

The match is scheduled for Wednesday at 02:00 BST at Mexico City Stadium. Mexico have won all three of their World Cup matches at this venue, while Ecuador secured their place in the knockout stages with a shock victory over Germany.

Appeal for sportsmanship

The FEF expressed hope that such incidents would not mar the tournament, stating: "We trust that these unsporting acts will not tarnish the football celebration that unites two brotherly countries."

England, who face DR Congo on Wednesday at 17:00 BST, would play Mexico in Mexico City if both teams win their last-32 fixtures.

FIFA has been contacted for comment but has not yet responded.