The future champions of world soccer may well take their claim to the title at the Jalisco Stadium in Mexico's second city -- Guadalajara. By far the toughest qualifying games in the 1970 World Cup will be played there. Teams involved include current World Cup holders, England, together with co-favourites, Brazil, and two strong East European contenders, Rumania and Czechoslovakia.

Prior to selection a as a World Cup venue, the stadium seated just over 40,000 spectators in an uncovered bowl. But an expensive rebuilding programme has swung into action to accommodate some of the world best soccer teams.

Seating will be increased to 71,000 and the arena will be covered. Interior facilities for players include a chapel under the main stand -- it has been completely sound proofed from the roar of the fans.

Workmen are at present rushing to have the improvements completed by June 2, the date of the opening game between Rumania and England.

In contrast to many European grounds, the players will never come into physical contract with their fans. The pitch is separated from the stands by a five foot deep ditch backed by a heavy wire fence.

Guadalajara, Mexico's second city, presents World Cup players with less of an altitude problem than the Aztec Stadium in Mexico City. The city stands 4,620 feet (over 1,400 metres) above sea level which gives it the lowest altitude of all the World Cup venues. But it also has some of the highest temperatures in Mexico.