Mexico and Portugal Play Out Goalless Draw in World Cup Warm-Up
Mexico and Portugal contested a 0-0 draw at the Estadio Azteca on Saturday in an international friendly that served as a key preparatory match ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The game, held at the iconic stadium in Mexico City, doubled as a test event for the recently revamped venue, which will host the opening match of the global football tournament this summer.
Stadium Reopening Draws Festive Crowd
The match attracted a lively and enthusiastic crowd eager to experience the atmosphere at the Estadio Azteca ahead of the World Cup, scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19. Mexico is co-hosting the prestigious event with the United States and Canada, making this friendly a significant milestone in the lead-up to the competition.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre expressed satisfaction with the performance, telling reporters, "It’s the best possible scenario, as I’ve said; to play here, you’ve got to have guts, because the fans are demanding and want to win and see good football." He praised his team's effort, adding, "The players gave it their all right to the end against Portugal, who are not an easy team. They’re a top-10 side, a really solid team."
Match Highlights and Near Misses
Portugal created the better chances throughout the encounter. Joao Felix went close in the 14th minute, while Goncalo Ramos struck the post midway through the first half. After the break, Bruno Fernandes fired just wide as the visitors continued to look the more dangerous side.
Tensions briefly flared between Pedro Neto and Jesus Gallardo, and the introduction of Toluca's Portuguese striker Paulinho was met with loud cheers from the home crowd. Mexico almost snatched a late winner through substitute Armando Gonzalez, but his header went wide, ensuring the match ended without a goal.
Post-Match Reactions and Future Fixtures
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez reflected on the performance, stating, "I think we had 10 shots on goal, which isn’t far off what we were aiming for. What isn’t good is the number of shots on target; we lacked accuracy." He emphasized the broader context, saying, "Success or failure isn’t just about the score. There are many more factors at play these days. I think that, after 90 minutes, the team is better prepared for the World Cup."
Mexico, who were booed by sections of the crowd at the final whistle, will face Belgium in another friendly on Tuesday. Portugal, meanwhile, are set to take on the United States the same day as both teams continue their World Cup preparations.
