DETROIT – Detroit City FC has announced the return of international friendlies to Keyworth Stadium with the news that the club will be hosting Club Universidad Nacional, better known as Pumas, at Keyworth Stadium on June 22 at 7 pm EST. The match will be the ninth international friendly in club history and the first since the COVID pandemic, most recently welcoming Club Atlas of Liga MX to Keyworth Stadium in 2019. This match is made possible thanks to the support of Ideal Group of Detroit.
“We’re excited to bring back international friendlies to Keyworth, especially with an opponent of this caliber. While all fun, these matches serve as a reminder of what makes soccer so special as the world’s sport: bringing together communities near and far while serving as a chance to showcase the city of Detroit and our club to the world,” said Sean Mann, Chief Executive Officer of Detroit City FC.
Single-match tickets for the international friendly will be available on April 25. Please note, that all 2024 DCFC season ticket packages will include tickets to the match at no additional cost, groups of 10 or more can secure their spot immediately by contacting tickets@detcityfc.com. The international friendly will not be televised or streamed; the only way to watch it is in person at Keyworth Stadium. June 22 will also be a doubleheader with the Detroit City FC USL W League side facing off against Kalamazoo FC in a 4 PM kickoff. One ticket will get supporters into both matches, and exit and re-entry will be allowed throughout the day.
Pumas, officially known as Club Universidad Nacional A.C., is one of Mexico’s most iconic and storied football clubs. National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) is a Mexico City-based club founded in 1954. The team’s name, PUMAS, is derived from the university’s nickname, “Los Pumas.”
Pumas UNAM quickly made their mark in Mexican football, winning their first league title in the 1976-1977 season. This triumph marked the beginning of a golden era for the club, with subsequent successes in the 1980s and 1990s cementing their reputation as a powerhouse in Mexican football. Led by iconic players such as Cabinho, Hugo Sánchez, and Luis Flores, Pumas became known for their attacking style and ability to produce talented youth players.
One of the most memorable moments in Pumas’ history came in 1980 when they won the Copa Interamericana, defeating the renowned Club Nacional de Football from Uruguay. This victory elevated Pumas onto the international stage and solidified their status as one of Mexico’s top football clubs.
Throughout the years, Pumas has maintained a strong presence in Mexican football, consistently competing for domestic titles and showcasing the talent of young Mexican players. The club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and playing an attractive brand of football has endeared it to fans not only in Mexico but also across the globe.
Today, Pumas remains a prominent force in Mexican football, with a passionate fan base and a rich history that inspires generations of players and supporters alike. As they strive for excellence on the pitch, the Pumas football club remains a symbol of pride for the National Autonomous University of Mexico and a beloved institution in Mexican sports.
“We are proud to welcome Pumas to Keyworth Stadium. We know how deep their support runs in the United States and across the world. This marquee matchup shows our commitment to providing metro Detroit with world-class friendlies against globally recognizable opponents,” said Trevor James, Sporting Director of Detroit City FC. The match will be a unique experience for soccer fans in Metro Detroit to see DCFC lining up against one of Mexico’s most popular and impactful clubs.”
For more information about Detroit City FC, visit detcityfc.com and follow @DetroitCityFC on X and Facebook and @detroitcityfootballclub on Instagram.
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Primary Media Contact: Jarrett Maki (Sports Information Director, jarrett.maki@detcityfc.com)
