In a recent account of the 2026 World Cup, referee Alireza Faghani provided a behind-the-scenes look at the last-16 match between Mexico and England held at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Faghani, an Australian-Iranian official, described the environment as exceptionally demanding, noting that the sheer volume of the crowd—nearly 90,000 fans—was audible even through the concrete walls of the locker room.

The report emphasizes the unique difficulties posed by the venue. Estadio Azteca is situated 2,240 meters above sea level, a factor that significantly impacts physical performance due to the reduced oxygen levels in the air. Faghani noted that Mexico’s historical success at the stadium, where they had not lost a competitive game since 2013, is partly attributed to their familiarity with these challenging conditions. The narrative focuses on the sensory experience of the referee, contrasting the quiet of his pre-match preparation with the intense, high-pressure environment of the stadium.

While the article provides insight into the referee's perspective, it remains focused on the atmospheric and environmental factors of the match rather than the specific officiating decisions or the tactical outcome of the game. The account serves as a reminder of the physical toll that high-altitude venues place on both players and officials during major international tournaments.