With so much focus on Orlando City Lion’s new stadium the
actual team has seemingly taken a backseat in the news. Luckily though that hasn't stopped them from
remaining sharp on the field, no matter where that field may be located in a
few short years. Orlando City SoccerClub announced an international friendly in cooperation with Fluminense
Football Club, the reigning Brazilian Champions. The international friendly will take place on
Saturday, June 22 at the Lion’s home field which is currently at the Citrus
Bowl.
“We are delighted to be hosting the reigning Brazilian
Champions, Fluminense,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “They are one
of the very best teams in all of Brazil and have a host of world-class players
in their squad. I’m sure it will be a great spectacle for our fans.”
Fluminense FC competes in Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A, the
top level of Brazilian soccer. This year
they are also one of the sides representing Brazil in the prestigious
Libertadores of American Cup.
“We are honored to have been invited to participate in this
international friendly match and, most importantly, of the new relationship
being built with Orlando City,” said Fluminense's President Peter Siemsen.
This isn’t the first time OCSC has hosted in friendly
matches. In January, 2013 they hosted AS
Roma and in years past have hosted Newcastle United, Bolton Wanderers, and
Stoke City (of which the current OCSC owner is associated with). Rawlins points that attracting such top-level
teams only makes Orlando City Lions all the more attractive to the MLS.
Fans can buy their tickets to the friendly beginning Tuesday,
February 26, at 12 p.m. Tickets start at $15. Orlando City 2013 season tickets
start at $125. The Lions kick off the regular season at home on Sunday, April
14, 2013 at the Florida Citrus Bowl against the Rochester Rhinos.
