This FIFA World Cup will mark a historic moment for the legendary Estadio Azteca. The iconic Mexican venue will host its third World Cup opening match, something no other stadium on the planet can claim.

The Azteca is not only one of the most important stadiums in football history, it is also the place where two of the greatest players of all time lifted the trophy: Pelé in 1970 and Diego Armando Maradona in 1986. Now, the “Colossus of Santa Úrsula” is set to make history once again with a third opening ceremony.

Opened in 1966, the stadium was first used for the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games and later for the 1970 FIFA World Cup, where 10 matches were played, including the legendary semifinal between Italy and Germany, famously known as “The Game of the Century,” as well as the final where Brazil won its third World Cup title with Pelé as the tournament’s biggest star.

Maradona’s World Cup and the Magic of Azteca

For the 1986 FIFA World Cup, the Azteca once again became the heart of world football. Nine matches were played during that tournament, and it is impossible to forget the quarterfinal clash between Argentina and England, where Maradona delivered one of the most iconic performances in football history. That afternoon gave birth to both the “Hand of God” and the “Goal of the Century.” Weeks later, Diego would lift the World Cup Trophy on the same pitch, immortalizing his career forever.

In this new World Cup, five more matches will be played at Estadio Azteca, bringing its all-time total to 24 World Cup games, officially making it the stadium with the most FIFA World Cup matches in history.

Let’s revisit the three World Cup opening matches held at this legendary venue.

Mexico 1970 — Mexico 0-0 Soviet Union

The opening match of Mexico 70 was simple, yet deeply emotional. It was the first World Cup ever held on Mexican soil, and the country was still riding the excitement of hosting the 1968 Olympic Games.

The match itself was tightly contested. Mexico constantly searched for a goal, but the Soviet Union defense held firm under the intense midday heat and in front of more than 107,000 fans.

As a historic note, this match featured the first official substitution in World Cup history, when Anatoliy Puzach came on at halftime for Viktor Serebryanikov.

Mexico 1986 — Bulgaria 1-1 Italy

On May 31, 1986, another FIFA World Cup began at the Azteca. Coincidentally, Mexico 70 had also kicked off on May 31.

At the time, it was tradition for the defending champion to open the tournament, which is why Italy faced Bulgaria in the opening game. The Azzurri arrived without legendary stars such as Paolo Rossi and Dino Zoff, but still retained much of the core that won Spain 82.

Alessandro Altobelli opened the scoring for Italy, and interestingly, he had also scored Italy’s last goal in the final against Germany four years earlier. However, a defensive mistake allowed Nasko Sirakov to equalize in the 85th minute.

Two opening matches at Azteca… and two draws.

Mexico/Canada/United States 2026 — Mexico vs. South Africa

For this upcoming FIFA World Cup, the host nation will once again have the honor of playing in the opening match. The game will take place on June 11 at Estadio Azteca, with Mexico facing South Africa.

And yes, another historical coincidence appears.

The opening match of South Africa 2010 also featured Mexico against South Africa… and it was also played on June 11. That game ended in a 1-1 draw in Johannesburg.

Now, Azteca prepares to welcome another historic night. A third opening match, a third World Cup, and another chance to continue expanding the legend of the most iconic stadium in football history.

And as the saying goes: third time’s the charm.

Will there finally be a winner in an Azteca opening match? We are ready for another unforgettable FIFA World Cup.

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