Report: Mexico to face Ecuador in October in Guadalajara as Estadio Akron gears up for 2026 World Cup

The Mexican national team is set to return to Guadalajara for the second time ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. ESPN has reported that Mexico will take on Ecuador on October 14 at Estadio Akron during the FIFA international break, allowing both squads to field their strongest lineups.

The match serves a dual purpose: while it offers El Tri valuable preparation time, it also gives local authorities in Jalisco another opportunity to run logistics and infrastructure tests related to mobility, safety, and connectivity in anticipation of the World Cup.

Estadio Akron - home to Chivas - will host four group-stage matches during the 2026 tournament, including Mexico’s second game. As part of its World Cup readiness efforts, extensive upgrades are currently underway. Groundskeepers and maintenance crews are in the process of replacing the natural grass with a hybrid surface, which will be ready for use by October for the Mexico vs. Ecuador match.

Earlier this month, organizers in Guadalajara officially announced the renovation timeline, stating that the pitch overhaul began on May 12 and is scheduled for completion by July 10, 2025 - just days before the Apertura 2025 season kicks off. This ensures Chivas can start the next campaign at their home venue without relocation.

FIFA, in a press release, outlined the reasoning behind these changes: “These upgrades meet FIFA’s technical requirements to ensure optimal playing conditions and safety. They are part of a broader plan to standardize the playing surfaces across all 16 host stadiums, guaranteeing uniform quality and a level playing field for all participating teams.”

With these efforts, Estadio Akron is fine-tuning every detail to meet the global standards expected for one of football’s most prestigious tournaments.

Mexico last played at Estadio Akron on October 15, securing a 2–0 victory over the United States. With Estadio Azteca currently undergoing renovations, El Tri has been hosting its home matches at Toluca’s Estadio Nemesio Diez, most recently facing Honduras there in the CONCACAF Nations League.

As part of their final preparations, El Tri will play two friendly matches on U.S. soil - facing Switzerland on June 7 and Turkey on June 10. These games will serve as key tune-ups ahead of their Gold Cup opener.