Brockton imposes curfew before Cape Verde vs Argentina World Cup match

The Massachusetts city, home to one of the country’s largest Cape Verdean communities, has imposed a temporary curfew ahead of Friday’s historic World Cup match between the West African nation and Argentina.

The curfew will be in effect from 10 p.m. Friday until 5 a.m. Saturday in Brockton, just south of Boston.

City officials said the decision followed recent World Cup celebrations that led to dangerous and illegal behavior.

“World Cup celebrations resulted in reckless driving, illegal street gatherings, vandalism, assaults, fireworks violations, disorderly conduct and other criminal activity,” the city said.

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Brockton is home to one of the largest Cape Verdean communities in the United States, with approximately one in four residents identifying as Cape Verdean. based on to local outlet The Enterprise.

Friday’s match was expected to witness huge celebrations as the 2026 tournament marks the first time the African island nation has qualified for the FIFA World Cup.

Following previous World Cup matches, Brockton police said several people were injured in shootings during post-match celebrations. based on reported to local outlet Boston 25 News, prompting city officials to impose a temporary curfew ahead of Friday’s game.

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Mural next to Mayor Bill Carpenter’s Garage in Brockton, MA, on October 8, 2020. (The Boston Globe via Lane Turner/Getty Images)

Within the scope of the curfew, no one will be allowed to enter workplaces serving alcoholic beverages after 19:00.

Customers already inside will be allowed to stay until 10pm, but “last calls” for alcoholic beverages must end by 9.30pm.

The city said only limited exceptions to the curfew will be allowed.

Such cases include law enforcement officers and other first responders, people traveling directly to or from legitimate work, people seeking medical care, and people responding to emergencies.

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha celebrates at the end of a World Cup Group H match against Uruguay on June 21, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Fla. (Lynne Sladky/AP)

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Brockton officials described the measure as a public safety measure aimed at preserving public order.

“The purpose of this curfew is to protect public safety, reduce criminal activity associated with post-game celebrations, and allow police, fire, and emergency personnel to effectively maintain order and respond to emergencies,” the city said in a statement. he said.

“Residents and visitors are urged to celebrate responsibly, comply with all laws, avoid unlawful gatherings, and cooperate with public safety authorities to ensure all World Cup celebrations remain peaceful and safe.”