Argentina, the reigning FIFA World Cup champion, will face Iceland on June 9 at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Alabama. The match is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Central Time and marks the first international soccer game ever held at the historic college football venue.
The event is part of the Road to 26 series presented by Turkish Airlines, leading up to this summer’s World Cup in North America. Organizers say it brings global attention to Auburn and offers a unique opportunity for local fans to witness world-class soccer.
Auburn athletics director John Cohen said, “To have the reigning FIFA World Cup champions choose Auburn as the site of their last match before defending their title represents a tremendous achievement and an incredible opportunity for Auburn Athletics and Auburn University. This exhibition between Argentina and Iceland will bring worldwide attention and exposure to Auburn and our community.”
Argentina’s national team, known as La Albiceleste, currently ranks third in FIFA’s world rankings. The squad features star player Lionel Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. Their only previous meeting with Iceland ended in a memorable 1-1 draw during the group stage of the 2018 World Cup.
Auburn Mayor Ron Anders said, “We look forward to the exhibition between Argentina and Iceland and to welcoming visitors from around the world to experience Auburn’s world-class hospitality. Athletic events have long been an economic driver for our community, boosting our local retailers, restaurants and hotels while providing a way for fans to have a special experience together in the heart of our city. We appreciate the hard work of Auburn Athletics and Auburn University in bringing this event to Auburn.”
Tickets start at $45 with sales beginning April 15 at RoadTo26.com. Rhett Hobart, Deputy Athletic Director/External Affairs & Chief Revenue Officer at Auburn said, “We are thrilled to partner with Unified Events and Florida Citrus Sports to bring this exceptional event to the Auburn community as we continue to strengthen Auburn’s position as a premier destination for live entertainment in the Southeast.”
Jordan-Hare Stadium has hosted football games since its opening 87 years ago along with concerts and state championships but never before an international soccer match.
The Road To 26 series also includes matches featuring Brazil vs Egypt (Cleveland), Bolivia vs Scotland (Harrison), Argentina vs Honduras (College Station), among others throughout June.
