Tatiana Cesso
The highly anticipated Mexico-Brazil soccer match this Saturday (7th) at Texas A&M’s Kyle Field is on track to break attendance records, with an expected crowd of over 90,000. This friendly match, part of the Mex Tour, is creating a buzz that’s not only electrifying soccer fans but also providing a significant boost to the local hospitality industry.
An Unprecedented Event
The match marks Kyle Field’s first international soccer event, with soccer legends Pavel Pardo from Mexico and Emerson da Rosa from Brazil promoting the game in College Station. Despite being labeled a ‘friendly’, both teams are gearing up for a fiercely competitive match, given the Copa America tournament starting in just two weeks. Pardo emphasized the intense rivalry, saying, “It is always when we play against Brazil. It is a tough challenge and of course we do always the best and I think for the fans it is going to be a perfect day.”
Breaking Records and Filling Hotels
Local hotels are experiencing a summer surge like never before. “At this point, we are completely sold out,” stated Jose Otero, general manager of Hilton College Station & Conference Center. Otero noted that such large crowds are unprecedented for the summer season, highlighting the event’s significant impact on the local economy.
Brazil’s Road Ahead
Following the match in Texas, the Brazilian national team will face the USMNT in Orlando on June 12th. This friendly is part of their preparation for the 2024 Copa America, which starts on June 20th in the United States. The Brazilian squad, including Vinícius Júnior, Alisson, Marquinhos, Raphinha, Rodrygo, and Éder Militão has been training in Orlando and will remain there for the next two weeks.
Copa America Hopes
Brazil is in Group D for the Copa America, alongside Colombia, Paraguay, and Costa Rica, with high hopes of topping the group. They are one of the favorites to win the tournament, trailing only Argentina in the betting odds. If they win their group, Brazil could potentially face the USMNT again in the quarterfinals.
The excitement surrounding these upcoming matches is palpable, setting the stage for an exhilarating summer of soccer in the United States.
