During the break the Mexico – South Africa matchthe first since WC 2026, the organizers paid tribute to the Argentine national team, champion at the previous World Cup organized in Mexico, the one in 1986.
In 1986, at the Azteca Stadium, Diego Maradona's Argentina became world champions. And the CM 2026 organizers wanted to honor this moment, on the occasion of the return of the World Championship to Mexico City.
Tribute to Argentina at halftime of the Mexico – South Africa match
At halftime, the organizers invited Nery Pumpido (68 years old), Argentina's starting goalkeeper at the 1986 World Cup, onto the field. He stepped onto the field and talked about the excitement of returning to Mexico City and how he felt at the previous World Cup played in Mexico.
“I am grateful to this country and this stadium, which gave me the most important trophy of my career. I have a strong connection with this stadium. Here, Diego Maradona scored the most beautiful goal in the history of the World Cup. I am very excited.
I remember that day with emotion. It can never be forgotten. The World Cup is the most beautiful trophy that anyone can lift. I am very happy to step again on the ground where I was world champion 40 years ago. I want to thank all of you who remembered what it was 40 years ago,” said Nery Pumpido on the field.
On the occasion of the match, the Azteca Stadium, now called Mexico City Stadium, became the first to play three opening matches at the World Championships. In 1970, at the first final tournament organized by Mexico, Pele's Brazil became world champions. After 16 years, it was Diego Maradona's turn to get his hands on the big trophy.
PHOTO: The hottest images from Mexico – South Africa, captured by photojournalist GSP
