The scale of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is so vast that organisers released the full fixture list a day after the draw, confirming the opening match between Mexico and South Africa on 11 June at the Mexico City Stadium. The name is only temporary — FIFA rules require commercial neutrality — but to football fans, it is and will always be Estadio Azteca.

In 2026, the World Cup returns to this legendary ground for the first time in 40 years. Revered worldwide, it is the only stadium to host two World Cup finals and holds more World Cup matches — and iconic moments — than any other.

The Game of the Century (1970)

The 1970 semi-final between Italy and West Germany is widely regarded as the greatest match ever played. Italy led 1–0 until West Germany equalised in the 92nd minute. Extra time descended into chaos and brilliance: Germany equalised again, Italy restored their lead, and by the 110th minute the score was 3–3.

With all substitutes used, Franz Beckenbauer played on despite a dislocated shoulder, arm strapped to his body. Had the match remained level after 120 minutes, a coin toss in the referee’s room would have decided the finalists — penalty shootouts would not be introduced until 1978. But Italy’s Rivera scored the decisive goal, ending Gerd Müller’s heroic effort and sending Italy to the final.

Pelé’s World Cup with the Greatest Squad (1970)

Brazil’s 1970 team — Pelé, Jairzinho, Tostão, Gérson, Rivellino and captain Carlos Alberto Torres — is still considered the greatest side to grace the tournament. Managed by Mário Zagallo, they won every match in Mexico and claimed their third title with a 4–1 victory over Italy in the final. Carlos Alberto’s thunderous finish after a flowing nine-player move is still hailed as the most beautifully constructed goal in World Cup history. Pelé’s header and his triumphant celebration remain among the tournament’s defining images.

The ‘Hand of God’ and the Goal of the Century (1986)

On 22 June 1986, Diego Maradona etched himself into footballing folklore during Argentina’s quarter-final against England. First came his infamous act of deception — punching the ball past Peter Shilton to score. Four minutes later came pure genius: a 60-yard run past four England players, capped with a feint that left Shilton on the ground before he rolled the ball in.

In under 300 seconds, Maradona delivered both a scandal and a masterpiece.

Maradona’s World Cup Final (1986)

The 1986 final between Argentina and West Germany began with Argentina racing to a 2–0 lead, only for the Germans to equalise with two quick goals late in the match. But Jorge Burruchaga’s winner, supplied by an extraordinary pass from Maradona in the 84th minute, sealed Argentina’s triumph.

Maradona lifting the trophy atop the shoulders of fan Roberto Cejas remains one of the most iconic photographs in World Cup history.

Before 1966, limited broadcasting kept the World Cup from reaching the world. By 1970, stable intercontinental TV transformed its popularity, showcasing Brazil’s brilliance to millions. Its global appeal soared again in 1986 as Maradona delivered immortality — both tournaments centred on Estadio Azteca.

With a 87,523 capacity, it is Latin America’s largest stadium, graced by legends from Pelé and Jairzinho to Beckenbauer, Gerd Müller, Lineker and Maradona, securing its mythical status.

(Writer is a football analyst)