New York City FC will open up the 2015 Carolina Challenge Cup against fellow expansion side Orlando City SC on Saturday, Feb. 21, Charleston Battery President Andrew Bell announced Tuesday.
The match between the two new MLS clubs will take the headlining nightcap spot on the first night of an eight-day tournament that features six matches between four teams, played in double-headers on Saturday, Feb. 21, Wednesday, Feb. 25, and Saturday, Feb. 28. All three nights will be played at Blackbaud Stadium, with 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. start times.
Tickets go on sale Monday, Dec. 1, at 10 a.m.
"Traditionally, the Battery has played the late games during the Challenge Cup," Bell said. "But we considered the historical significance of the first NYCFC-Orlando City match, the traveling fans of both clubs, and the world-class stars involved. Giving that event prominence just seemed like the right move."
"It's an incredible field, and the response we've received from our fans so far has been spectacular," said Suzanne Sudzina Brandon, Battery director of ticket sales. "With the level of excitement we've seen from fans in the MLS markets - particularly New York and Orlando - we're ecouraging everyone to buy early. The first night of Challenge Cup routinely sells out, and with our new marketing partnership with Major League Soccer and help from our local governments, this year's sellout could come sooner rather than later."
