Nashville SC announced on Monday their debut match in Major League Soccer will take place Feb. 29, when they host Atlanta United at Nissan Stadium in Nashville.
"We are thrilled to announce that Nashville SC’s inaugural match will be played right here in Nashville in front of our hometown fans,” said Nashville SC CEO Ian Ayre in a team statement. “February 29th will be a historic date for our club and we look forward to showcasing the city and our supporters to the entire league during the opening weekend of Major League Soccer's 25th season.”
The game will pit Nashville, one of two 2020 MLS expansion teams alongside Inter Miami, against the 2018 MLS Cup winner. Given the regional proximity between Nashville and Atlanta, the opening match could also be the start of an interesting MLS rivalry between two of the South's most vibrant cities.
"Since the day I got appointed as CEO of Nashville Soccer Club, one of the first people to call me was [President of Atlanta United] Darren Eales," Ayre told the Tennessean in an interview.. "One of the first comments he made was, 'We cannot wait for you guys to get to MLS. You'll be our biggest rival. Let's bring it on.'
"That still rings true today," he added.
Tickets for the landmark match are available through Nashville SC season ticket memberships, starting at $425 ($25 per game). Limited memberships remain, so you can get in on the action at Nashville SC's website or calling (615) 750-8800.
