Soccer fans in Chester, Pennsylvania are buzzing with excitement as soccer superstar Lionel Messi and Inter Miami take on the Philadelphia Union in the 2023 Leagues Cup semifinal at Subaru Park on Tuesday night. Fans have been eagerly waiting outside the Ritz-Carlton in Center City, hoping to catch a glimpse of Messi before the big game.
“It’s not every day that one of the world’s best players is in your city, so that’s pretty cool,” said Izzy Zissman of Fairmount, expressing the sentiment shared by many fans.
However, not everyone is rooting for Messi. Thirteen-year season ticket holders Elvis and Elizabeth Gonzalez are die-hard Philadelphia Union fans and are hoping for Messi’s downfall. “It’s cool to see Messi, but my team is Philadelphia Union 100%,” said Elizabeth Gonzalez of Chester.
For those planning to attend the game, here’s everything you need to know:
– The match started at 7 p.m.
– The game is being broadcasted on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
– With a sell-out crowd expected at Subaru Park, fans were advised to arrive early. Official Union lots opened at 2 p.m., and fans without pre-paid parking passes could seek parking at Lots K and L.
– All gates opened at 5 p.m. for the Union’s Leagues Cup Semifinal against Inter Miami C.F.
Tickets to see Messi in person sold out in minutes over the weekend, causing a frenzy among fans. “It’s going to be the highlight of the week, it’s going to be a really big game,” said Justin Nachod of South Philadelphia. According to SeatGeek, the official ticket marketplace for Philadelphia Union, the lowest price available for the game is around $247.
Tuesday’s match is the Semifinal of the Leagues Cup. The winner of this game will advance to the finals, where they will face either Monterrey or Nashville. If the Union can defeat Messi and Inter Miami, they will have the opportunity to host the Leagues Cup Final on August 19 at Subaru Park.
Ahead of the game, there were concerns about Messi’s fitness after he appeared to tweak his right ankle during training on Monday. However, Inter Miami CF coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino played down the potential injury, stating, “If it was something serious, I’m sure everyone would have been shocked.” Messi, who has been in excellent form, scoring eight times in five cup matches since joining Inter Miami, will be hoping to be at full health for what is expected to be his toughest test against Jim Curtin’s Philadelphia Union.
The excitement surrounding Messi’s presence in Chester is palpable, and fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling match between two talented teams.
How is Lionel Messi’s presence in Chester adding excitement and prestige to the high-stakes semifinal for fans
Essi here and all, but at the end of the day, we want our team to win,” said Elvis. “We’re confident in the Union’s abilities and we want them to prove themselves against such a renowned opponent.”
The anticipation for the match has reached a fever pitch, with local businesses and restaurants offering special promotions and extended hours to accommodate the influx of soccer enthusiasts. Bars and pubs are preparing for a packed crowd, expecting fans to come together to watch the game and cheer on their respective teams.
For many fans, the opportunity to witness Lionel Messi in action is a dream come true. The Argentinian forward’s skill and talent have made him one of the most celebrated athletes in the world. His presence in Chester has added a level of excitement and prestige to the already high-stakes semifinal.
The Leagues Cup, an annual competition between clubs from Major League Soccer and Liga MX, has been a highlight for soccer fans in the United States. The tournament provides an opportunity for MLS teams to test their abilities against their Mexican counterparts, creating fierce rivalries and unforgettable moments.
As the countdown to the kickoff continues, supporters are preparing their chants and songs, ready to create an electric atmosphere inside Subaru Park. The stadium, known for its raucous and passionate crowd, is expected to be filled to capacity, with fans from both sides eager to make their voices heard.
Whether rooting for Messi and Inter Miami or standing firmly in support of the Philadelphia Union, one thing is certain – this semifinal is guaranteed to deliver an exciting and memorable match. Soccer fans in Chester, Pennsylvania are lucky to have the opportunity to be a part of this thrilling event, and they are eagerly counting down the minutes until kickoff.
