COMMERCE CITY, CO. --
The Colorado Rapids announced today that they will host an international friendly match against UANL Tigres presented by Cerveza Tecate's Fútbol Tecate program at Dick's Sporting Goods Park on Wednesday, July 9, 2008. Kickoff for the match will be 8 p.m. MT.
"The Colorado Rapids are pleased to bring the world's game to the residents of Colorado once again," said Managing Director Jeff Plush. "We are excited to give our fans a top level exhibition against such a great opponent."
"The growing number of Hispanics in Denver and the rising popularity of soccer in the U.S. create a perfect opportunity for us to return to the U.S. and demonstrate our talent," said Tigres President and former Mexican World Cup icon Enrique Borja. "We are thrilled to share the field with a team of such caliber as the Rapids and look forward to a great match."
"As an authentic Mexican cerveza, we understand the importance that soccer plays in the lives of our adult Hispanic consumers here in the U.S. As such, we're thrilled to bring some of today's most admired fútbol players to local playing fields and give enthusiasts the opportunity to witness their talent first hand," stated Carlos Boughton, Tecate brand director. "Through our Fútbol Tecate program, we hope to strengthen our relationship with fans in the Colorado region as they join us this July 9 to celebrate the spirit and passion behind each play."
The game will mark the first time the Rapids have played an opponent from Mexico since they defeated Santos Laguna 2-0 in Las Vegas, Nevada on March 12, 2003. Colorado hold an all-time record of 3-3 in friendlies against their neighbors to the South.
Tigres have won two Primera Division Championships and finished second to Rapids partner club Pachuca in the 2001 Invierno and the 2003 Apertura tournaments. The team from Monterrey is no stranger to playing in the United States. They have a partnership with MLS side FC Dallas and the teams play an annual home and away series for the Rio Grande Plate. Tigres also won the InterLiga Championship in 2005 and 2006, granting them a berth to the prestigious Copa Libertadores.
Tickets for this match will go on sale Thursday, June 19 at 12 p.m. MT and will start at just $12 per seat. Tickets will be available at the Dick's Sporting Goods Park Box Office, at ticket kiosks located in all Colorado area Dick's Sporting Goods locations, online at www.tickethorse.com, or by phone at 1-866-466-6556.
Full Season Seat Holders of the Colorado Rapids will have this game included in their season package and may use their game ticket(s) marked 'Bonus Voucher #2' for entrance into the match.
Discounted ticket packages will also be available for groups by calling the Rapids Sales Office at 303-825-GOAL (4625).
