The United States will face Mexico in Arizona on April 19 in the first installment of what US Soccer is calling the “Continental Clasico.” The federation described the match as the inaugural event of a new annual series that will pit the U.S. men’s team against top‑tier opponents from North, Central, or South America.
Since UEFA introduced the Nations League in 2018, the United States has struggled to secure international friendly opponents, as the competition has reduced opportunities for European clubs to host such games. By contrast, friendlies with Mexico have been held regularly, typically drawing large crowds to American stadiums and respectable television audiences.
“Building a platform that brings a world‑class opponent to the United States each year will be another key step toward making soccer the preeminent sport in our country,” said US Soccer Vice President of Partnership Marketing Kelly Higgins. “Kicking off the event with one of the biggest rivalries in international soccer will present a unique opportunity to engage avid, casual, and multicultural soccer fans alike.”
The game will be played at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, the home of the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals and the venue for this year’s Super Bowl.
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