In beautiful South America, you’ll find some of the world’s most passionate and football-loving countries, where the sport is not just a game but a way of life. And what better way to experience the magic of football than by visiting the most iconic stadiums in the continent?
In this guide, we will take you on a tour of the top football stadiums in South America, from the legendary Maracanã to the modern Arena BRB Mané Garrincha. Whether you are a casual observer or a die-hard fan, getting football tickets and visiting these stadiums will give you an unforgettable experience and a deeper appreciation for the beautiful game.
Maracanã
Located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Maracanã is one of the world’s most iconic football stadiums. It opened in 1950 for the World Cup and has since hosted two World Cup finals and many other significant events. With its iconic oval shape and a capacity of 78,838 spectators, Maracanã is known for its electric atmosphere and samba rhythms that can be heard throughout the stadium. The stadium has hosted some of the most significant matches in football history, including the 1950 World Cup final, the 2014 World Cup final, and the 2016 Olympics opening and closing ceremonies.
La Bombonera
La Bombonera, located in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is the home of Boca Juniors, one of South America’s most popular and successful football clubs. It opened in 1940 and has since become an iconic landmark of Buenos Aires. With its unique “D” shape and a capacity of 49,000 spectators, La Bombonera is known for its steep stands and passionate fans (la hinchada) who create a sea of blue and yellow with chants and banners. The stadium has hosted many historic matches, including the Superclásicos against River Plate, the Copa Libertadores finals, and the 2001 World Club Cup final, where Boca Juniors defeated Real Madrid.
Estadio Monumental
Estadio Monumental, located in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is the home of River Plate, Boca Juniors’ bitter rival. It opened in 1938 and has since become a symbol of Argentine football. With its classic bowl shape and a capacity of 70,074 spectators, Estadio Monumental is known for its modern facilities and scenic location by the river. The stadium has hosted several key games, including the Superclásicos against Boca Juniors, the Copa Libertadores finals, and the 1978 World Cup final, where Argentina defeated the Netherlands.
Arena BRB Mané Garrincha
Arena BRB Mané Garrincha, located in Brasília, Brazil, is one of South America’s most modern and sustainable stadiums. It opened in 1974 and underwent significant renovations for the 2014 World Cup, where it hosted several matches, including the quarterfinal between Brazil and Colombia. With a capacity of 72,888 spectators, Arena BRB Mané Garrincha is known for its innovative design and sustainability features, such as rainwater harvesting and solar panels. The stadium has also hosted matches for the 2019 Copa America and the 2021 Club World Cup final.
Estadio Centenario
Estadio Centenario, located in Montevideo, Uruguay, is a historic stadium that played a crucial role in the birth and development of football in South America. It opened in 1930 for the first World Cup, where it hosted the final between Uruguay and Argentina, and has since become the national stadium of Uruguay. With a capacity of 60,235 spectators, Estadio Centenario is known for its historical significance and Art Deco style. The stadium hosted many key matches, including the 1950 World Cup final, where Uruguay defeated Brazil and the 1987 Copa America final.
Estadio Azteca
Estadio Azteca, located in Mexico City, Mexico, is the largest stadium in Mexico and one of the most daunting venues for opposing teams. It opened in 1966 for the World Cup and has since hosted two World Cup finals and many other major events. With a capacity of 87,523 spectators, Estadio Azteca is known for its altitude and intimidating atmosphere that can unsettle even the most experienced players. The stadium has hosted some of the most memorable matches in football history, including the 1970 World Cup final, where Brazil defeated Italy in a classic game, and the 1986 World Cup quarterfinals, where Diego Maradona scored his infamous “Hand of God” goal against England.
Arena da Amazônia
Arena da Amazônia, located in Manaus, Brazil, is one of the world’s most unique and challenging stadiums. It opened in 2014 for the World Cup and features eco-friendly design elements, such as rainwater harvesting and a green roof. With a capacity of 44,310 spectators, Arena da Amazônia is known for its unique architecture and climate challenges, such as high humidity and heat, which can affect players’ performance. The stadium has hosted several important matches, including the 2014 World Cup match between England and Italy, the 2016 Olympics match between Colombia and Nigeria, and the 2019 Copa America match between Brazil and Peru.
Estádio do Morumbi
Estádio do Morumbi, located in São Paulo, Brazil, is the home of São Paulo FC, one of Brazil’s most famous football clubs. It opened in 1960 and has become a key landmark of São Paulo. With a capacity of 67,428 spectators, Estádio do Morumbi is known for its classic bowl shape and modern amenities that offer football fans a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The stadium has hosted several important matches, including the 1970 World Cup matches and, more recently, the 2019 Copa America matches.
Hernando Siles Stadium
Hernando Siles Stadium, located in La Paz, Bolivia, is one of the world’s highest stadiums, with an altitude of 11,932 feet above sea level. It opened in 1930 and has since become the home of the Bolivian national team. With a capacity of 41,143 spectators, Hernando Siles Stadium is known for its challenging conditions, including thin air and reduced oxygen levels, making it difficult for visiting teams to adapt. Footballing legend Lionel Messi struggled with the altitude so much that he threw up on the pitch during Argentina’s match against Bolivia in 2013. However, for the Bolivian national team, it provides a significant advantage. They have won many important games at the stadium, including the 1993 World Cup qualifiers against Brazil and the 2018 World Cup qualifiers against Chile.