In what has become an annual summer tradition in the U.S., many of Europe's soccer powerhouses will be visiting America to play in exhibition matches leading up to the start of their club season.
The most recent news came Tuesday, when the Philadelphia Eagles announced that Real Madrid will face Scottish Premier League champion Celtic on Aug. 11 at Lincoln Field, the home of the NFL's Eagles.
This is the second time in two years Real Madrid has visited the "City of Brotherly Love." They played the MLS' Philadelphia Union last summer in front of 55,000 fans.
Immediately following last year's game, the Eagles knew they wanted the Spanish League champions back. In addition, it was important that Real Madrid brought their best players. Therefore, one major stipulation in the deal was that Real's best players participate. So stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Iker Casilas and Sergio Ramos will be on display for fans to watch.
Finding Real's opponent was a little more difficult. There were talks with several teams including Italian giants Juventus and AC Milan. Finally Celtic was chosen based on schedule availability.
This match will be the third consecutive year an international soccer friendly has been hosted in Philly and the 18th soccer match held at the Lincoln Financial Field since it opened its gates with the epic match between Manchester United and Barcelona.
It will be a busy summer for the East-coast, soccer-loving city. PPL Park, home of the Philadelphia Union, will host this year's MLS All-Star Game between MLS' All-Stars and Champions League winners Chelsea.
As for the teams, this is the only match Celtic will in the United States. Real Madrid, however, will play four exhibitions in just nine days in the U.S. including stops in Las Vegas and Los Angles to play Juventus and the Los Angeles Galaxy respectively.
These Americans tours allow clubs to play warm-up matches against other top European teams as well as MLS teams that are in mid-season form. In addition, it brings in revenue for American cities, teams and stadiums, and European clubs are able to try to market their franchise in America.