Definition of Estadio Azteca

The Estadio Azteca is perhaps one of the most famous stadiums in both American continents. It sits at a mighty 2,200 m (7,200 ft) above sea level and has hosted one of the most famous matches in football history; the 1986 World Cup quarter-final between Argentina and England.

The Estadio Azteca first broke ground in 1961, with an initial capacity of 107,494. It is the home stadium of the Mexican club Club America and the Mexican national team. The stadium has undergone numerous renovations in order to come up with its current capacity of 87,523.

Besides the famous Argentina-England match known for Maradona's "Hand of God" and "Goal of the Century", the Azteca has also been the venue for two World Cup finals. There was the 1970 World Cup Final, where Pele's Brazil defeated Italy 4-1. Then, of course, it hosted the 1986 Final, which saw Maradona and Argentina lift the trophy after a 3-2 victory over West Germany.

The Azteca has also been used for non-footballing purposes. Concerts from Michael Jackson, U2, Elton John and more have been held there. There were also political events, religious events and even boxing matches. Even American football games have been played there, with the latest coming in 2019 between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Los Angeles Chargers.

The Azteca is a planned venue for the 2026 World Cup, which sees the United States, Canada and Mexico co-host the tournament together. If the games at the Azteca can live up to the past tournaments' fame and entertainment, it will certainly be a sight worth seeing.