Superfan Peter Robinson witnessed England’s last match at Mexico’s Azteca stadium 40 years ago among a crowd of 114,580 fans. Since then, he has attended eleven World Cups, supporting England throughout. One of the most memorable matches for Peter was when Diego Maradona scored his infamous ‘Hand of God’ goal and ‘Goal of the Century’ at the Azteca stadium, where England is set to play against Mexico this Sunday.
Recalling his experience, Peter mentioned the stark contrast of that era, highlighting the lack of safety regulations as he rode back into the city in a police truck without seat belts. At 29 years old, he traveled to Mexico for what he considers the best World Cup he has attended, just four years after the Falklands War.
Peter, a retired British Airways worker from Hayes, Middlesex, shared how the Mexican fans surprisingly supported England during the match. He reminisced about the overwhelming presence of police, soldiers, and tanks outside the stadium, where about 4000 England fans were present alongside a majority of Argentinian supporters.
Describing the atmosphere at the stadium back then, Peter mentioned the intense heat and humidity, contrasting it with their stay in Acapulco due to the aftermath of an earthquake in Mexico City. Having been to eleven World Cups, Peter highlighted the 1970 Mexico World Cup as his favorite, especially because he had tickets to all England matches.
Looking ahead to the upcoming match at the Azteca stadium, Peter warned England supporters to expect a passionate atmosphere, citing the fervor of Mexican fans who recently celebrated by taking to the streets after a victory over Ecuador, albeit marred by tragedy. Despite not believing England can win, Peter expressed optimism for a strong performance in the quarter or semi-finals, noting the presence of VAR to prevent controversies like Maradona’s handball incident.
Now, four decades later, Peter is hopeful for a different outcome as he anticipates England’s match at the same stadium.