Estadio Malvinas Argentinas
Mendoza's largest stadium, built for the 1978 World Cup and home to historic football and rugby matches.
Malvinas Argentinas Stadium is a stadium in the city of Mendoza, Argentina. With a seating capacity of 42,000, it is the largest stadium in Mendoza. Built for the 1978 FIFA World Cup, it is owned and administered by the provincial government.
- Location
- Mendoza, Argentina
- Primary Tenant
- Club Atlético Godoy Cruz Antonio Tomba
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
The stadium was built from 1976 to 1978, designed by Uruguayan Rafael Viñoly. It opened on 14 May 1978 with a friendly match. Originally named Estadio Ciudad de Mendoza, it was renamed after the Falklands War to reflect Argentina's position in the Falkland Islands sovereignty dispute. It hosted six matches during the 1978 FIFA World Cup. The Argentina national football team has played several friendly matches here but only one official match, in 2012 against Uruguay for 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification.
In Their Own Story
For the Argentina National Team, this stadium holds a singular distinction: it hosted only one official match in its history. That game took place in 2012 against Uruguay for the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification. While the team has played several friendly matches in Mendoza, none carry the weight of that specific qualifier. The venue also served as a neutral ground when Buenos Aires-area club Argentinos Juniors played home matches here during the 1993–94 season due to an agreement with TyC, though attendance was low and losses substantial. Beyond football, the stadium hosted Argentina test rugby matches and the final of the 2005 Under 21 Rugby World Championship, showcasing its versatility as a national sporting venue.
Reader's Guide
The venue is mostly used for association football matches, though it has hosted rugby union games during The Rugby Championship and music concerts. Local club Godoy Cruz plays some home matches here. It has also hosted matches in the Copa Libertadores, Copa Sudamericana, Copa Argentina, and the 2017 Supercopa Argentina. The stadium was renovated for the 2011 Copa América, including new seats, bathrooms, roof repairs, and a large LED screen.
Did You Know?
- The stadium has a dry moat surrounding the playing field, separating it from the grandstand.
- It hosted the final and 3rd place match of the 2005 Under 21 Rugby World Championship.
- The main event of the 2012 Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia was held at this stadium.
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