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Bolivia's Altitude: World Cup Dream, Opponent's Nightmare
25 Jan
Summary
- Bolivia plays World Cup qualifiers at extreme 4,150m altitude.
- This unique home advantage has been criticized as inhumane.
- Mexico will avoid this harsh altitude in an upcoming match.
Bolivia is preparing for the 2026 World Cup playoffs, partly thanks to a formidable home-field advantage at the Estadio Municipal de El Alto. This stadium, situated at approximately 4,150 meters (13,615 feet) above sea level, has become a crucial element in their qualification journey.
Historically, Bolivia utilized the high altitude of La Paz, but El Alto proved even more advantageous. After FIFA lifted a ban on matches above 2,750 meters, Bolivia went undefeated at El Alto during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, securing vital wins against teams like Brazil and Colombia.
The intense conditions at El Alto have sparked widespread criticism from players and managers, who deem playing at such extreme altitudes as inhumane and a significant disadvantage. Despite the controversy, Bolivia's successful campaign at El Alto has given them a chance at the World Cup for the first time since 1994.
However, Mexico's upcoming match against Bolivia will not take place at this extreme altitude. The game is scheduled for Santa Cruz de la Sierra, a location significantly lower, allowing Mexico to prepare in a more conventional environment while Bolivia plays at a reduced altitude to acclimate for potential future matches in similar conditions.
