Diego Maradona's presence still resonates at Azteca Stadium, the site of his infamous 'Hand of God' goal in 1986. On that day, Maradona led Argentina to a quarter-final win over England.
What happened at Azteca Stadium?
The stadium's security officer near tunnel eight is often surrounded by fans seeking to relive Maradona's moments. A photograph of Maradona on the shoulders of his teammates hangs on the wall nearby.
Why is Maradona revered in Mexico?
Almost every visitor to the stadium comes in search of Maradona memorabilia, with some getting emotional to the point of tears. When Maradona died over five years ago, thousands turned up at the Azteca to pay their respects.
What's next for Maradona's legacy?
A small bronze statue of Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal was removed during renovation but will be restored soon. The goal that made him and unmade England is currently in storage beneath the stadium.
The earthquake that hit Mexico in 1985 took everything from the country, but nine months later, Maradona arrived for the 1986 World Cup. Maradona's impact on the sport is still celebrated by locals, with a torta named after him at Martina's cafe outside the stadium.
Luis Caledron, a retired journalist, remembers the press conferences with Maradona. Journalists from Argentina and England would press Maradona on his personal life, trying to unsettle him. Maradona would often rattle them more than they did him.
The famous 1986 Argentina jersey was almost not ready in time. Coach Carlos Bilardo needed something lighter, with two days to go for their opening game. Second-choice goalkeeper Héctor Miguel Zelada found twenty blue jerseys, the away kit, in Tepito, a notorious barrio.
Two years before his death, Maradona returned to Mexico, not to the capital, but to Culiacán. The jokes wrote themselves, given the city's reputation as the headquarters of the Sinaloa cartel.
Maradona's legacy continues to inspire fans at Azteca Stadium. The stadium's cafe owner, Martina, says her husband watched the 1986 game live and that Maradona was a big reason for the happiness the World Cup brought.
The Maradona torta at Martina's cafe is hot on one side and sweet on the other. 'Poco diablo,' says Martina, a little devil. Maradona's impact on the sport and the people of Mexico is still felt today.
On his death anniversary, people come to the Azteca and place bouquets. Last time, they kept a mural of him in a churro hat. Maradona may not be Mexican, but he is kind of a hero there.
The Azteca Stadium and Maradona have given each other footballing immortality. Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal will always be remembered as one of the most infamous moments in football history.
The security officer near tunnel eight is still tired from holding back the crowd. The photograph of Maradona on the wall nearby is a reminder of his lasting impact on the sport.