MEXICO CITY — In Mexico City, earthquakes are a common occurrence, but the seismic activity felt at Estadio Azteca on Tuesday night was sparked not by nature, but by national team stars Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez, who both found the net in Mexico‘s 2-0 victory in the round of 32 against Ecuador.
The atmosphere was electrifying for Mexico’s first World Cup knockout win in four decades (noting the change to a 48-team event for the new round). It felt as if the collective spirit of the nation echoed through the historic venue. Ecuador appeared daunted, as the crowd became an impromptu defense, jeering every time an Ecuador player touched the ball.
Mexico’s head coach Javier Aguirre reflected on the connection with the fans, stating, “I believe yes, this was the most important victory of my career. We’ve had great achievements, but none like this because we were at home, with our fans giving their all. People truly appreciate it.”
– As it happened: Mexico eases past Ecuador into the round of 16
– Ogden: Haaland is pivotal for Norway’s World Cup ambitions
– Carlisle: Tillman shines for the USMNT this World Cup
The history of the Azteca looms large for any team that steps onto its field. It’s the only stadium to have hosted three World Cup openings. How can one not be in awe of the venue that witnessed Diego Maradona’s legendary “Hand of God” goal against England in 1986 or the unforgettable duel between Italy and West Germany during the 1970 World Cup semifinal known as the “Game of the Century”?
Beyond its past, the Azteca serves as a stronghold for Mexico. The national team has a remarkable record in competitive matches there, with 69 wins, 17 draws, and only 2 losses out of 88 games. El Tri remains unbeaten in their last nine World Cup matches held in Mexico City (7 wins, 2 draws), including victories in the last four without conceding a goal — a record that includes two shutout wins in 2026. The only time Mexico conceded and didn’t win in this venue was during a 1-1 draw with Paraguay in 1986.
Therefore, it’s no surprise that Ecuador seemed entirely overpowered in this match. Aguirre himself admitted that Ecuador “took us to the edge,” adding an ominous note for the winner of England versus Congo DR, who will face this formidable challenge in the highest stadium of the tournament (about 2,200 meters, or 7,200 feet above sea level) on July 5 in the next round.
On paper, England is favored to defeat their African opponent and advance. Typically, the Europeans would hold a significant advantage on neutral ground, but with an enthusiastic home crowd exceeding 80,000 and the altitude in play, the outcome remains uncertain.
Mexico must capitalize on the opportunity of hosting the World Cup, a first since 1986. During that tournament and in 1970, they achieved their best finishes by reaching the quarterfinals. Yet since then, they’ve faced the “Quinto Partido” (fifth-game) curse, suffering seven consecutive round of 16 exits along with one group stage failure in 2022.
This curse may have been broken, but should Mexico defeat England or Congo DR, their fifth match will take on even greater importance. Will the Azteca’s legendary atmosphere provide the boost needed?
If so, it will be the last time a Mexican stadium hosts a knockout game in this World Cup, as the quarterfinals, semifinals, third-place play, and final will take place in the U.S. This decision seems odd, especially given the thrilling narratives and lively ambiance provided by Mexico, but if El Tri is to advance, they will need to demonstrate that their success is earned beyond mere home advantage.
As for Aguirre, he’s preparing for the next round as best he can.
“I need a whiskey with ice,” he quipped after the match. “A Lagavulin, today, but I don’t have it in my room anymore. But don’t tell anyone.”