On the 18th of February 2012 we visited the local Mexico City derby between Cruz Azul and Pumas. It’s not the biggest derby in the country, but still one of the most emotional matches for both teams.

As we knew the city pretty well, we arrived by local bus, but for someone less familiar with the city it will likely be more convenient to either use the metro or the metrobus.

It was already fairly crowded around the stadium when we arrived, however there were no queues at all for the ticket windows (taquillas – located on the side of the bullring). The cheapest tickets had already been sold out so we settled for a pair of MXN 270.00 (about USD 22.00). Our seats were excellent placed though, high in one of the corners with good views (Cruz Azul has fixed seat numbers). Mind that it isn’t allowed to bring a belt into the stadium (or in certain sections).

The stadium was definitely better filled than at a regular Cruz Azul match (at times the stadium can stay rather empty). I’d say it was probably about 80% to 90% full.

Apart from the area for the visiting fans, there were also a lot of Pumas fans mixed up with the Cruz Azul fans, often groups of friends made up of fans of both teams, or even mixed couples. The atmosphere therefore stayed very friendly throughout the game. The match wasn’t of high quality, but the atmosphere was good, with both sets of fans chanting along.

As in all Mexican stadiums one can buy drinks and various types of food from the vendors walking up and down the stands. A large beer (two bottles poured into a paper cup) costs MXN 60.00.

After the match it took only a few minutes to get out of stadium. There are quite a few good fast food restaurants (tacos etc.) around the stadium to have a bite after the match and wait until the crowds have dissolved. Alternatively there are also plenty of more upscale food options at Insurgentes Avenue.