BOISE, Idaho – International Arena Soccer returns to Boise once again, bringing some of indoor soccer’s best players together for an international friendly when the U.S. National Arena Soccer Team (USNAST) hosts Team Mexico on Saturday, Aug. 10 at CenturyLink Arena.
Included in this year’s roster is U.S. soccer legend Landon Donovan, who will play for Team USA during the match. Donovan, who plays for the San Diego Sockers in the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL), is the all-time leader in assists for the U.S. men’s national team while also sharing the all-time scoring lead with Clint Dempsey as well as owning the second-most international caps. Donovan won a record six MLS Cups, owns the league’s all-time record for assists at 136, and is now the namesake for the league’s MVP award—the Landon Donovan MVP Award.
“We’re thrilled to have soccer return for the Treasure Valley soccer community and our city, and we’re excited to welcome Landon Donovan to Boise,” said CenturyLink Arena General Manager Eric Trapp. “After the successes of last summer’s tournament and our sold-out international friendly two years ago, we couldn’t wait to bring back some of the best players in the world for a night of face-paced and competitive soccer.”
The international meeting between Team USA and Team Mexico will be the second in Boise in as many years, once again showcasing some of North America’s top indoor talent. Last year, Team USA defeated Team Mexico 3-2 in the tournament championship game.
Rosters for the event will be released in the coming weeks.
Team USA marks their third-straight summer in Boise, returning to CenturyLink Arena after winning last year’s international friendly tournament with Team Mexico, Team Columbia and Team Somalia. The team’s first indoor appearance came on Aug. 11, 2017 in a sold-out international friendly against Team Brazil.
Arena soccer is high-scoring and incorporates many elements familiar to hockey. The playing surface is surrounded by the boards and glass used during Steelheads games, players change on-the-fly and are limited to 5-on-5 with one goaltender, and some penalties will result in man-advantage situations.
The event begins at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 10, and doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now and start as low as $15. For tickets and information, contact the CenturyLink Arena Box Office at 331-TIXS or visit centurylinkarenaboise.com.