Adelaide United FC is excited to confirm they will host one of Spain’s top La Liga sides, Villarreal CF on Friday 29 May at Coopers Stadium as part of the 2015 LFP World Challenge.
Villarreal, nicknamed El Submarí Groguet (Yellow Submarine) due to its yellow home kit, will be hitting the shores of Australia for the first time in its 92-year history. It will also be the first time a La Liga side will play at Coopers Stadium.
The club is based in Vila-real, a city in the province of Castellón and plays their home games at El Madrigal.
Founded in 1923, Villarreal plays in Spain’s La Liga, where they currently sit 6th on the table and more recently made the UEFA Europa League quarterfinals but were knocked-out by fellow Spanish club, Sevilla. They won the UEFA Intertoto Cup in 2003 and 2004 and have finished La Liga runners-up in season 2007/08.
With the “Yellow Submarine” committed to bringing its strongest possible squad to Australia, Adelaide United Chairman Greg Griffin is thrilled by the prospect of entertaining such a side.
“The LFP World Challenge is a prestigious tournament instigated in order to promote the Spanish Professional League competitions, their participating clubs, the values of football and the Spanish brand worldwide,” said Griffin.
“Of course we have some synergies already at the Adelaide United Football Club but we are honoured to again participate and bring one of Spain’s most famous clubs in Villareal to Adelaide.”
“As those who were at Adelaide Oval last year can testify a top six La Liga team is of a very high quality and Villareal play a very attractive brand of football.
“Both teams will be in full competition mode at the end of each of our respective domestic competitions, so it will be a great opportunity to test ourselves against one of Spain’s top clubs at our own Coopers Stadium where the atmosphere will be fantastic as always.”
Head Coach Josep Gombau is relishing the opportunity to face another Spanish team.
“This is another good chance for everybody in Adelaide to see one of the best Spanish La Liga teams,” said Gombau.
“They play very good and attractive football where we also get the chance to play and compare ourselves with a team that implements the same style as us.
“Last year we brought out Malaga, and they play fantastic football. The people of Adelaide got to see this and they will have the chance to see it all again.
“It will also be a good way to end the season. It will be a fantastic game in front of our fans at our stadium. I hope to see everyone out supporting us.”
Adelaide United will host La Liga side, Villarreal on Friday 29 May at Coopers Stadium as part of the 2015 LFP World Club Challenge. Ticketing information to be confirmed shortly.
Match Details
Adelaide United FC v Villarreal CF
Friday 29 May 2015
Coopers Stadium, Adelaide
Kick-off: 7:30pm
Ticket Details
TBC
