ANN ARBOR, Mich. (WXYZ) — Michigan Stadium will once again play host to international soccer as FC Barcelona will take on SSC Napoli in a La Liga-Serie A matchup on Saturday, Aug. 10. It is the second of two games the teams will play in America.
The annual cup will be a home and away series featuring each of the teams.
“LaLiga has recognized the importance of international expansion, especially in the United States, which is why we have dedicated significant resources through our joint venture with Relevent Sports Group,” said LaLiga President Javier Tebas. “The creation of the LaLiga-Serie A Cup is in line with our mission to create more opportunities for U.S. fans to celebrate LaLiga and we look forward to this new annual tradition to bring our clubs to America each summer.”
“This Cup is the start of something incredibly special for both leagues to compete in front of thousands of fans in the biggest media market in the world,” said Serie A CEO Luigi De Siervo. “We couldn’t be more excited for this opportunity and are proud to have SSC Napoli playing Barcelona in the first edition of this prestigious matchup.”
Earlier this week, we reported that Relevent Sports was looking to host the match at Michigan Stadium, but the university wouldn't comment on the report at the time.
It's expected Lionel Messi will play in the event if he is healthy.
This would be the fourth international match at The Big House. Last year, Liverpool beat Manchester United in front of 101,254 people. In 2016, Real Madrid took on Chelsea in front of 105,826 and in 2014, Real Madrid took on Manchester United in front of 109,318 fans.
Tickets for the match will go on sale June 25 at 8:30 a.m. or presale and to the public on June 28 at 10 a.m. They will be available at Relevent Sports or at MGoBlue.
