SAN PEDRO SULA, Honduras — In a surprising turn of events after a Nations League quarterfinal match, Javier Aguirre, the coach of the Mexican national team, suffered a head injury when he was struck by an object at the conclusion of the game. The incident occurred following Mexico’s 2-0 loss to Honduras on Friday night in San Pedro Sula.

After the final whistle, Aguirre approached Colombian coach Reinaldo Rueda to exchange pleasantries when he was hit by what appeared to be a beer can. The impact caused a cut on his head, leading to bleeding. Despite the unfortunate event, Aguirre downplayed the incident during a post-match press conference, stating, “Nothing, it is just soccer; the game was hard-fought, and they played better. Regarding the other (the incident), there’s no need to mention it; I’m not one who complains, it is just soccer, nothing happened.”

Aguirre, aged 65, is currently in his third term as head coach of the Mexican national team, having taken the position last August after the dismissal of Jaime Lozano, who faced criticism following a first-round exit in the Copa America.

Reinaldo Rueda expressed his concern over the incident, commenting, “I’m sad for what happened at the end of the match because he is a human being. I want to apologize to the Mexican people and to Aguirre; this cannot happen.” Rueda’s remarks highlighted the importance of sportsmanship and the respect owed to fellow coaches and players.

Looking ahead, Mexico is set to host Honduras for the second leg of their quarterfinal series next Tuesday, with both teams eager to advance in the tournament.