Soccer star Lionel Messi has been attracting large crowds in MLS stadiums across the United States for three years. This summer, he might have the chance to perform in front of even bigger audiences. Auburn and Texas A&M will host warm-up matches for the Argentina national team in early June.
It is still undecided if Messi will be included in Argentina’s World Cup roster.
However, Texas A&M is hopeful that Messi will attend the friendly match against Honduras on June 6 at Kyle Field, which holds 102,733 spectators. This could lead to a significant gathering of fans eager to see him.
“I don’t want to promise anything, but we do expect him to be part of it,” said Trev Alberts, Texas A&M’s athletics director. “I can’t pinpoint what that will look like, but we are hopeful. This is all part of their preparations for the Road to 26.”
Auburn will host Argentina’s second friendly match on June 9 against Iceland.
Will Messi take part in these games? That is a question many fans from both institutions are eager to have answered soon.
Regardless, both universities are excited to host international soccer events before the World Cup.
“Hosting the reigning FIFA World Cup champions for their last match before defending their title is a tremendous honor for Auburn Athletics and Auburn University,” commented Auburn athletics director John Cohen. “This match will bring global attention to Auburn and our community.”
Auburn’s stadium capacity is 87,451.
Expect to see plenty of pink Inter Miami and blue and red Barcelona jerseys in the stands. If Messi plays, fans of both college sports and soccer will be in for a special experience.