In a highly anticipated international friendly, Portugal will take on Mexico at the newly renovated Estadio Banorte in Mexico City on March 28, 2026. This match serves as a significant preparation for both teams ahead of the upcoming 2026 World Cup, with an expected attendance of close to 100,000 fans.
The Estadio Banorte, formerly known as Estadio Azteca, has seen its capacity increased from 83,000 to 87,500 following extensive renovations. These upgrades include a new sound system featuring 250 speakers and improvements that have been in the works with the involvement of 2,200 workers. “It’s true that I’ve had trouble sleeping thinking about the project and making sure it’s the best it can be,” said Félix Aguirre, the project manager.
Historically, Estadio Azteca has been a fortress for the Mexican national team, which has not lost a match there since 2013. However, the upcoming friendly will see Mexico missing several key players, including Edson Álvarez and Santiago Gimenez, while Álvaro Fidalgo is set to make his debut.
Portugal, on the other hand, will be without their star player Cristiano Ronaldo, who is sidelined due to injury. Ronaldo expressed his disappointment, stating, “Good to be back! Looking good,” prior to the announcement of his absence.
Both teams are expected to field strong lineups, with Mexico likely adopting a 4-3-3 formation, while Portugal is predicted to use a 4-2-3-1 setup. This match will not only test the newly renovated stadium but also provide both teams with valuable experience as they prepare for the World Cup.
The kick-off is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, and with the stadium’s elevation at 7,350 feet above sea level, players will need to acclimatize to the conditions. This friendly match is seen as a crucial opportunity for both teams to fine-tune their strategies and build team chemistry.
As the date approaches, excitement builds among fans and players alike. Observers are keen to see how both teams perform in this high-stakes environment, and the implications of this match could resonate into their World Cup campaigns. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes to the lineups.
