But a complete sellout won't be possible because officials are not offering tickets for the first seven rows around Azteca's massive bowl, citing atrocious viewing angles at field level.
high altitude contest
The halftime show will feature a series of traditional Mexican dances involving 900 performers, the Mexican national anthem will complement that of the US, and kickoffs, punts and field goals might carry farther given the 2,160m altitude.
Otherwise, things on the field will look much the same as any other game. The league even brought down the paint used for yard markers, the NFL logos and the insignia of the Cardinals in one end zone and the 49ers in the other.
"We're trying to use less paint to save the stadium," said Pete Wozniak, manager of athletic facilities at Arizona State University, who came down to lead a 14-member grounds crew preparing the field for the game. "They've got to play soccer here again in a few weeks."
And going back to soccer, Mexico's true sports love, is fine with many.
"There's a lot of interest. But an entire NFL season, when so many people like soccer better?" said Juan Hernandez, who was asked about a Mexican franchise after arriving at the Azteca ticket booth aboard an SUV with a Dallas Cowboys novelty license plate. "For the NFL, it should be `yes' in Mexico, but better only for one day."
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