The Azteca Stadium is preparing for the longest World Cup in history

Tonight, the legendary Estadio Azteca will host the opening match of the largest World Cup to date, with the participation of 48 teams. The pressure is on the Mexican national team, the tournament's host, aiming to break their streak of eliminations in the quarterfinals.

The historic Estadio Azteca, emblematic venue

Also known as Ciudad de México or Banorte, Estadio Azteca will witness the first match of a World Cup set to be the longest in history, featuring 48 teams competing until the final on July 19th in New Jersey.

Pressure on the Mexican National Team

Under the leadership of Javier 'El Vasco' Aguirre, the Mexican national team faces South Africa in an opening match reminiscent of the 2010 World Cup. With seven consecutive World Cups ending in the quarterfinals, the 'Tri' aims to exceed expectations and go further in this edition.

Expectations and Challenges for Mexico and South Africa

In Group A alongside South Africa, South Korea, and the Czech Republic, Aguirre, Rafa Márquez, and the Mexican coaching team are expected to advance to the Round of 16 and tackle the challenge of reaching the elusive fifth match, a desire of the demanding local fans. Meanwhile, South Africa, led by Belgian Hugo Broos, arrives with the intention of surprising the hosts at this 2026 World Cup.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Estadio Azteca se prepara para el Mundial más largo de la historia