Javier Aguirre has coached Mexico at two World Cups, played in another, and somehow keeps coming back for more. Now he’s staring down what might be the biggest assignment of his career: leading the host nation into the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Estadio Azteca on June 11.

A stadium with unmatched history

Estadio Azteca is not just a venue. It’s a monument to football itself, with a capacity exceeding 80,000 and a resume that no other stadium on the planet can match.

The 2026 opener will mark the third time Azteca has hosted a World Cup opening match. It previously held that honor in 1970 and 1986, both years when Mexico served as host nation.

For Aguirre, the connection to that history is personal. He was on the pitch as a midfielder for Mexico during the 1986 World Cup, playing in the very same stadium where he’ll now pace the sideline as manager.

The 2026 tournament itself is breaking new ground. It’s the first World Cup co-hosted by three nations: Mexico, the United States, and Canada. It also expands the field to 48 teams, up from the 32-team format that had been standard since 1998.

The opponent will be South Africa, adding another layer of narrative intrigue given South Africa’s own history as a World Cup host in 2010.

Aguirre’s third act

Aguirre was appointed Mexico’s coach in July 2024, making this his third stint leading El Tri. He previously managed the national team during the 2002 and 2010 World Cups.

Aguirre’s preparation has included bringing in veterans from Mexico’s 1986 World Cup squad to speak with current players. He’s also enlisted Julio César Chávez, the legendary Mexican boxer, to help with the psychological readiness of the squad.

What the preparations look like

The approach heading into June 11 is multifaceted. Tactical rehearsals and friendly matches are being used to test different lineups and systems, while the psychological component is getting equal billing in the overall preparation plan.

Aguirre’s task is to field the strongest possible squad in front of a renovated Azteca crowd that will number north of 80,000.