Security was tight around the Estadio Azteca on Thursday (June 11) ahead of the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa.

The Group A clash marks a return to the World Cup stage for the iconic venue that hosted matches in 1970 and 1986, while also reviving memories of the 2010 tournament opener, when South Africa held Mexico to a 1-1 draw in Johannesburg.

The atmosphere is expected to be festive as more than 80,000 fans pack the renovated Azteca for the first match of the expanded 48-team tournament, but the occasion will bring its own pressure for a side expected to make the most of home advantage.

DESCRIPCIÓN DE IMÁGENES

SHOWS: MEXICO CITY, MEXICO (JUNE 11, 2026) (REUTERS - Access all)

1. EXTERIOR OF ESTADIO AZTECA AHEAD OF THE OPENING MATCH OF THE 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP

2. VARIOUS OF 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP BANNERS & SIGNAGE ON EXTERIOR OF STADIUM

3. VARIOUS OF MEMBERS OF NATIONAL GUARD AMONGST MEDIA & PEOPLE LINING UP TO ENTER STADIUM

4. VARIOUS OF MEMBERS OF NATIONAL GUARD

5. SECURITY DOG

6. VARIOUS OF POLICE LINED UP OUTSIDE GATE TO ENTRANCE OF STADIUM

7. "CONTROL" STAFF

8. POLICE LINED UP WITH "CONTROL" STAFF IN THE BACKGROUND

9. 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP BALL STATUE