World Cup opener at Azteca Stadium features Shakira's performance
The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 10:08 PM
Last updated Jun 11, 2026

Mexico City hosted the opening game of the World Cup at the Azteca Stadium, marking the first time in 40 years the country has held the tournament. The stadium was filled to capacity with all 83,000 seats occupied 90 minutes before the kickoff. The atmosphere was charged with pride as Mexico becomes the first nation to host three World Cups. Despite travel challenges due to protests and road closures, FIFA's concerns about delays were alleviated as the event proceeded smoothly.
- •Shakira performed at the World Cup opener in Mexico City.
- •The game took place at the historic Azteca Stadium.
- •All tickets were sold, filling the venue 90 minutes before kickoff.
- •Challenges included protests and road closures affecting travel.
- •Mexico celebrates becoming the first nation to host three World Cups.
- 10:08 PMThe Guardian Sport — Infantino’s rebrand and long haul games: five takeaways from World Cup opener
"Mexico City played host to this year’s first game as an emotionally charged Azteca witnessed Shakira’s big return Mexicans have waited 40 years to witness a World Cup in their own country and the pride felt from becoming the first nation to stage three tournaments has been easy to sense in the city all week. Those fortunate enough to have secured tickets were not going to miss out. Despite road closures and multiple protests from striking teachers and families of the country’s 130,000 disappeared making travel challenging, all 83,000 seats at the Azteca were filled 90 minutes before kick-off, with Fifa’s fears of being forced to delay proceedings proving unfounded. Continue reading...
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