May 23, 2008 MLS Toronto FC announces friendly opponents (from Toronto FC Media Relations)
05/23/2008 11:25AM
TFC announces friendly opponents
Toronto FC Media Relations
Toronto FC has announced two world class opponents, for this summer's international friendlies at BMO Field - Pachuca of Mexico, will visit on July 5 and Independiente of Argentina that will play Toronto FC ten days later on July 15.
"Once again, we are excited to announce two great opponents that will be coming to Toronto to excite our fans," said Toronto FC director of business operations Paul Beirne. "We feel both Pachuca and Independiente will bring with them a Latin style of play that many of our fans aren't used to seeing here in Toronto. It's a very different game compared to the European style of play that we saw last year from Aston Villa and Benfica. Latin America players have always played a big part of Major League Soccer and we know that not only will the games be entertaining - but it will also be a very competitive match for our squad."
On Saturday July 5, at 7:30p.m ET, Toronto FC will host Pachuca at BMO Field. The Mexican Primera Division side was founded in 1900 and is the oldest club in the country. The "tuzos" have been one of the most successful clubs in Mexico over the last ten years. The team has won five national championships, three CONCACAF Champions Cups, the Copa Sudamericana title in 2006 and a SuperLiga title in 2007. Earlier this season Pachuca eliminated D.C. United in the semifinal of the Champions Cup. The team boasts not only Mexican players, but many from all over South America including Colombian goalkeeper Miguel Calero (Captain) and Gabriel Caballero of Argentina.
Tuesday July 15, at 7:30p.m ET Independiente will kick off against Toronto FC. Established in 1905, the team has a rich history and is based in Avellaneda, in the greater Buenos Aires area. Independiente has won 14 Argentine Championships (ranked third behind power houses River Plate and Boca Juniors), seven Copa Libertadores titles which included four straight from 1972 to 1975 as well as 15 international titles. Many great players have worn the famous red shirt including Daniel Bertoni and Jorge Burruchaga who were World Cup Champions in 1978 and 1986 respectively.
Tickets for the two games will go on sale to the public beginning June 4th at 10a.m, but groups of 20 or more are able to purchase their tickets now by calling 416-360- GOAL (4625).
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