Massachusetts city imposes curfew ahead of historic World Cup match
Brockton, Massachusetts will implement a temporary nighttime curfew this Friday as the city prepares for what officials anticipate will be large-scale celebrations surrounding Cape Verde's first-ever FIFA World Cup match.
The curfew will run from 10 p.m. Friday through 5 a.m. Saturday, according to a city announcement. Under the order, no individuals will be permitted to enter bars or restaurants that serve alcohol after 7 p.m. Customers already inside must depart by 10 p.m., with establishments required to stop serving alcoholic beverages by 9:30 p.m.
City officials cited public safety concerns stemming from past World Cup celebrations, which they said resulted in reckless driving, illegal street gatherings, vandalism, assaults, fireworks violations, and disorderly conduct. Police investigations are ongoing following previous matches during which several people were injured in shootings that erupted during postgame festivities, according to Boston 25 News.
"The purpose of this curfew is to protect public safety, reduce criminal activity associated with post-match celebrations, and enable police, fire, and emergency personnel to effectively maintain order and respond to emergencies," the city stated.
The match carries particular significance for Brockton's substantial Cape Verdean population. Approximately one in four residents identifies as Cape Verdean, making the city home to one of the largest such communities in the United States, according to local outlet The Enterprise. Cape Verde, a West African island nation, qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time in the country's history.
Limited exceptions to the curfew will apply for law enforcement officers, first responders, individuals traveling directly to or from work, those seeking medical attention, and those responding to emergencies.
The city urged residents and visitors alike to celebrate responsibly. "Obey all laws, avoid unlawful gatherings, and cooperate with public safety officials to ensure that all World Cup celebrations remain peaceful and safe," officials said.