England enter the Azteca - where football kings are crowned
BBC Sport explores the history and cultural power of the Azteca, one of the great cathedrals of world football, as England prepare to face Mexico there in the last 16 of the World Cup.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"There is just something very special about Azteca."
— Pele , Athlete
"While I had a great passion for architecture, I had an even bigger passion for football."
— Pedro Ramirez Vazquez , Academic
"It is next to impossible to communicate on the pitch because the Azteca is full of sound swirling all around you."
— Jason de Vos , Athlete
Key People
Jason de Vos is a retired Canadian footballer who played professionally and later became a coach.
Diego Maradona was an iconic Argentine football player known for his extraordinary skill and controversial life.
Pedro Ramirez Vazquez was a renowned Mexican architect known for designing major sports venues.
Pele is a legendary Brazilian footballer widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.
Locations
All Coverage
BBC Sport explores the history and cultural power of the Azteca, one of the great cathedrals of world football, as England prepare to face Mexico there in the last 16 of the World Cup.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
Using international football to reignite Premier League dreams
Before his potential Premier League debut for Fulham, BBC Sport looks at the role international football has played in the development of players like Shea Charles.
August 23, 2026 at 06:48 PMEngland World Cup hopes end after Netherlands draw
England's chances of World Cup glory are over after they draw 2-2 with the Netherlands.
August 24, 2026 at 08:40 PMDragon to a Swan - Eustaquio relishes next chapter
After World Cup heroics for Canada, Stephen Eustaquio relishes his next challenge having swapped the Champions League for the Championship by joining Swansea City.
August 28, 2026 at 12:01 PMMaresca's Manchester City reign begins with dramatic comeback against Bournemouth
Two managers in charge of new clubs face off with Manchester City under Enzo Maresca and Bournemouth under Marco Rose, as the hosts stage a late comeback to kick the new Premier League season off in dramatic fashion.
August 23, 2026 at 07:03 PMIpswich sign Argentina World Cup winner Palacios
Argentina midfielder Exequiel Palacios becomes the first World Cup winner to sign for Ipswich Town after joining from Bayer Leverkusen.
August 27, 2026 at 08:54 PMEngland in total control at Lord's after Pakistan crumble - Reuters
England in total control at Lord's after Pakistan crumble Reuters
August 28, 2026 at 07:33 PM