Venezuela Steps In For Japan
Read More 22/03/03
The United States Men’s National Team will host Venezuela on March 29 at Seattle Seahawks Stadium in Seattle, following the decision of the Japanese Football Association to cancel their two-match U.S. tour. Kickoff for the first international soccer match at the new stadium is set for 1 p.m. PT, and will be broadcast live on ESPN2. Fans can follow the action live online via ussoccer.com’s MatchTracker, presented by Philips Electronics.
“We are certainly disappointed by the decision of the Japanese Football Association,” said U.S. Soccer President S. Robert Contiguglia. “We provided their federation with ample evidence of the extensive security measures in place, and we continue to have every confidence that Seattle will provide a safe environment for the players and fans to enjoy an outstanding display of soccer. Sporting events around the country remain on schedule, and we look forward to welcoming Venezuela to Seattle.”
Japan was scheduled to play Uruguay on March 26 at Qualcomm Stadium, then travel to meet the U.S. in Seattle three days later.
The United States and Venezuela have met only once before, with the teams battling to a 3-3 draw in the Copa America in 1993. The Venezuelans collected five victories in 2002 World Cup qualifying, including four of their last five matches, marking the most wins ever in their qualifying history.
“We’re excited that Venezuela has accepted the invitation to play us,” said U.S. Manager Bruce Arena. “Over the past two or three years, the Venezuelan national team has made great strides, and I think they are perhaps the most improved team in South America. We are certainly looking forward to the challenge.”
Tickets ranging in price levels from $20 to $70 are still on sale at all Ticketmaster outlets throughout Washington, Oregon and British Columbia, at the Seahawks Stadium ticket office, by phone (Seattle 206-628-0888; Tacoma 253-627-8497), and on-line at www.ussoccer.com. Groups of 20 or more can order through U.S. Soccer at 312-528-1290.
Tickets for the USA vs. Japan match will be valid for the game against Venezuela. Fans wishing to obtain a refund must make their cancellation by Friday, March 28, at 5 p.m. PT by returning tickets to their original point of purchase. Fans who ordered through Ticketmaster via phone or internet should call Ticketmaster directly or visit www.ticketmaster.com for further details. Refunds will be issued using the same form of payment originally used by the purchaser.
The United States is continuing preparation for participation in two major tournaments this summer. In June the U.S. will square off against Brazil, Cameroon and Turkey in the FIFA Confederations Cup from June 18-29 in France, and the USA will defend its Confederation championship in the 2003 CONCACAF Gold Cup to be held from July 12-23 in Boston, Miami and Mexico City.
The U.S. is slated to face Mexico on May 8 at Reliant Field in Houston, and will host Paraguay in a preparation match for the Gold Cup July 6 at Columbus Crew Stadium.
courtesy of www.ussoccer.com