MLS club Philadelphia Union will play host to Spanish giants Real Madrid in an international friendly this summer. The second-year franchise will meet Jose Mourinho's Los Blancos at Lincoln Financial Field on Saturday July 23 as part of the 2011 Herbalife World Football Challenge.
Union CEO Nick Sakiewicz confirmed the meeting, saying it was a great moment for the club to be able to lure such a powerful club to their part of the world.
"We are delighted to play another world-class international team at Lincoln Financial Field this summer. This will be another chance for us to showcase that the Union can stand toe-to-toe with the elite teams of the world. We are especially grateful for our partnership with the Eagles and their dedication and hard work to make this opportunity a reality," he said.
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter added: "Hosting Real Madrid provides another opportunity to showcase Philadelphia to the world. Philadelphia is a global tourist destination, thanks in part to the success of excellent city venues such as Lincoln Financial Field. We could not be more excited for our city."
Managed by 2010 FIFA World Coach of the Year Jose Mourinho, the 31-time Spanish LA Liga champions and record nine-time European champions Madrid boasts some of the world's top stars, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaká, Iker Casillas, Xabi Alonso, Sergio Ramos, Mesut Özil and Karim Benzema.
