Mexico’s historic Azteca Stadium to kickoff World Cup opener: All to know

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“There’s just something very special about the Azteca,” said Pele. “You need to be inside it, to feel it to understand. It’s unique.”
The Brazilian legend enjoyed one of the finest moments of his career in Estadio Azteca, as he lifted his third World Cup in the towering stadium in Mexico’s sprawling capital.

This year, a new generation of players will realise just how special the stadium is, as it becomes the first arena to host World Cup matches in three separate tournaments.

From Brazil’s remarkable World Cup victory in 1970, to Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal in 1986, this arena has provided the backdrop to some of the biggest moments in football history.

Now, after nearly two years of renovations, the 83,000-seat stadium is ready for kickoff in the largest World Cup in history.

Here’s all you need to know about Mexico City’s legendary stadium.
Early days of Estadio Azteca
Construction on the “Colossus of Santa Ursula” began in 1961 and was completed five years later, with more than 107,000 fans attending the inaugural match between Mexico’s Club America and Italy’s Torino.

The venue was then used for a number of games during the football tournament at the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games, including the final, which saw Hungary defeat Bulgaria 4-1.

Two years later, it was the showpiece stadium at the 1970 World Cup, as Mexico became the first country outside of Europe and South America to host the tournament.
Estadio Azteca hosted 10 matches during the event, including the opener, in which Mexico played out a goalless draw with the Soviet Union.

It was also the venue for a match which is widely regarded as one of the finest of all time, as Italy overcame West Germany 4-3 after extra time in an incredible semifinal encounter.

Italy went on to lose 4-1 to Brazil in the final, with Pele parading the World Cup trophy around the Azteca pitch.