SACRAMENTO, Calif. (November 30, 2017) – Sacramento Republic FC will host MLS side Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) in a friendly match at Papa Murphy’s Park, scheduled to take place in February 2018 in the run-up to LAFC’s inaugural MLS season. This match is the first announced match in LAFC history and will be part of the 2018 Republic FC season ticket package.
“We anticipate this match to be one of many between LAFC and Republic FC that will continue to elevate the rivalry between our cities and our passionate fans,” said Republic FC Chairman and CEO Kevin Nagle. “LAFC has done an incredible job in their launch of an MLS team and stadium and we are looking forward to joining their ranks in the time ahead.”
LAFC was announced as Major League Soccer’s 22nd expansion club in 2014 and will begin league play in March 2018. The club has already made multiple announcements including securing former U.S. Men’s National Team head coach Bob Bradley, signing Mexico National Team forward Carlos Vela and are currently in the final months of construction on a 22,000-seat stadium in the heart of downtown Los Angeles.
“We have taken notice of the on and off-field success of Sacramento Republic FC and look forward to an important match for us in preparation for our opening season,” said LAFC General Manager and Executive Vice President of Soccer Operations John Thorrington.
Republic FC was recently named one of four finalist cities being considered for MLS expansion rights, two of which will be announced by MLS before the end of December.
The friendly match will serve as one of Republic FC’s first preseason matches before the club’s 2018 USL season. Republic FC have played MLS clubs in each of their four preseasons, facing the San Jose Earthquakes and the Colorado Rapids in past seasons. The club has also played MLS sides LA Galaxy and Real Salt Lake in U.S. Open Cup play.
Tickets for the friendly featuring LAFC will be included in the 2018 Republic FC season ticket package. For more information on season tickets or to place a deposit, visit www.sacrepublicfc.com.