Johan Cruyff's impact on football extends to Guadalajara, where he introduced a grass pitch at Estadio Akron in 2012.

What happened?

Cruyff spent nearly a year at CD Guadalajara, also known as Chivas, and appointed John van 't Schip as head coach.

He replaced the artificial turf with real grass, a decision that made Estadio Akron the most modern pitch in Mexico.

On 18 Jun, four Chivas players started for Mexico in their 1-0 win over South Korea at Estadio Akron.

Why it matters for Johan Cruyff

Cruyff's focus on the pitch's quality was evident in his coaching career, a trait also seen in his disciple Pep Guardiola.

Van 't Schip recalls Cruyff's excitement about the academy and the challenge of fielding only Mexican players.

Cruyff's legacy continues to shape the football landscape, with his ideas influencing dozens of teams across the tournament.

What comes next?

Estadio Akron will host Spain's meeting with Uruguay on 26 Jun, a testament to Cruyff's lasting impact on the sport.

The pitch has been further upgraded with hybrid strands, making it an ideal venue for top-level football matches.

Cruyff's decision to introduce real grass has benefited the youth players, who can now play on a high-quality surface.

The impact on Guadalajara

Guadalajara's Estadio Akron is now considered one of the finest pitches in North America, thanks to Cruyff's vision.

The Mexican giants, Chivas, have a policy of fielding only Mexican players, a challenge that Cruyff was excited to take on.

Van 't Schip remembers Cruyff's attention to detail, particularly when it came to the pitch's quality, which has become a hallmark of his coaching philosophy.

The World Cup match between Spain and Uruguay will be played on the pitch that Cruyff helped to create, a lasting legacy of his influence on the sport.

Cruyff's time at Guadalajara may have been short, but his impact on the club and the sport as a whole will be felt for years to come.

The Estadio Akron pitch is a testament to Cruyff's commitment to quality and his desire to leave a lasting legacy in the world of football.

On 26 Jun, the world will see the result of Cruyff's vision, as Spain takes on Uruguay on the pitch that he helped to create.