Auburn University announced on April 9 that it will host the national soccer teams of Argentina and Iceland for a World Cup warm-up match at Jordan-Hare Stadium on June 9.
The event is significant as it brings the reigning FIFA World Cup champions, Argentina, along with their captain Lionel Messi, to Auburn just days before they begin their title defense. The exhibition game is expected to attract both dedicated soccer fans and those new to the sport.
James Armstrong, head coach of Auburn Tigers Women’s Soccer, said, “We’re more than happy to share our facility with either Iceland, Argentina or both. Once the announcement came today, our soccer players were beyond happy, thrilled. We’ve got a great soccer facility here at Auburn so I’m sure they’ll love playing on it and training on it when they get into town.” Armstrong added, “This is the biggest event that we could ask for. We’ve got the world champions coming, arguably the greatest men’s player of all time right here in our community, seven days before they start their World Cup.”
Jamie Watson, a veteran broadcaster and former professional player who emceed Thursday’s announcement at Jordan-Hare Stadium said: “It’s a massive deal. The final match for Argentina before they begin their defense as world champions in the FIFA Men’s World Cup. To be able to land the match here – we’re standing on this very pitch – some of the biggest stars in the world will be playing right here. Their final tuneup for the biggest sporting event this world has ever seen, it’s no small feat how this all came together.” Watson continued: “That’s why he’s on the poster,” referring to Messi. “This is the best of the best. This could be the group…that is lifting the World Cup trophy…and their final tuneup…could be right here in Auburn.”
Tickets go on sale April 15 for general public after an exclusive pre-sale period for members of Auburn University including faculty and students; prices start at $45.
Auburn athletics director John Cohen described hosting these teams as both an honor and an opportunity: “Since 1939, Jordan-Hare Stadium has been site of some of most incredible moments in history of college football,” Cohen said. “But now it’s going to see a different kind of futbol.” He added: “To have reigning FIFA World Cup champions choose Auburn as site of their last match before defending their title represents a tremendous achievement and an incredible opportunity.”
