Mexico and Portugal played to a 0-0 draw in a friendly match at the Estadio Azteca on Saturday, marking the stadium's reopening ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The game was Portugal's first without Cristiano Ronaldo, who missed the match due to injury. Both teams had scoring chances, with Portugal's Joao Felix and Goncalo Ramos coming close in the first half, while Mexico's Armando Gonzalez nearly scored late in the game.
The match was overshadowed by a tragic incident before kickoff, when a fan died after falling from a VIP box seat. Authorities reported the man was intoxicated and attempted to jump between tiers before falling to the stadium's car park. The Mexico City Public Prosecutor's Office is investigating the incident, reviewing CCTV footage and collecting witness statements.
Despite the tragedy, fans flocked to the stadium, embracing the pre-World Cup atmosphere. Supporters expressed excitement about the renovations and the upcoming tournament, though some noted tighter security measures. Protesters outside the stadium highlighted local infrastructure shortages, including housing, water, and electricity.
Mexico will face Belgium in another friendly on Tuesday, while Portugal takes on the United States. The World Cup, co-hosted by Mexico, the U.S., and Canada, begins on June 11.