In the lead-up to the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, soccer fans in Foxborough, Massachusetts were treated to a high-profile international friendly match: Mexico Vs Portugal. Gillette Stadium became the battleground for these two world soccer powerhouses on Friday, June 6, offering a preview of the talent heading to the global tournament. The match, which kicked off at 8:30 p.m., drew significant attention, especially with the confirmed presence of some of the biggest names in international soccer.
Star Power on Display: Ronaldo and More
The Portugal squad was headlined by Cristiano Ronaldo, who was then the reigning FIFA Ballon d’Or winner. His appearance alone was a major draw for fans eager to witness one of the sport’s all-time greats in person. Alongside Ronaldo, Portugal boasted other European club standouts such as Manchester United’s midfielder Nani and Real Madrid’s solid defender Pepe, adding further depth and excitement to their lineup. These players were not just names on a team sheet; they were key figures expected to lead Portugal’s charge in the upcoming World Cup.
Mexico’s Talented Roster Prepared for Brazil
Mexico, equally preparing for their World Cup campaign, brought a strong contingent of their own. Recent call-ups for World Cup qualifiers and friendlies included dynamic forwards like Javier Hernández, known popularly as “Chicharito”, Oribe Peralta, and the skillful Giovani dos Santos. These players represented the core of the Mexican national team, bringing a blend of experience and flair that promised a competitive match against Portugal. For Mexican fans, it was a crucial opportunity to see their national heroes in action before they embarked on their journey to Brazil.
Ticket Information and Fan Excitement
Tickets for the Mexico vs Portugal friendly started at an accessible price of $40, making it a relatively affordable opportunity to see world-class soccer. They went on general sale from 10 a.m. on Monday, February 24, through Ticketmaster outlets and the Gillette Stadium box office. The anticipation for the match was palpable, with Revolution season ticket holders and multi-game package holders getting early access through private pre-sales.
Brian Bilello, president of the Revolution, highlighted the significance of the event: “With both of these teams leaving directly for Brazil after this series of matches, we’re very excited to be able to present this unique opportunity to fans of this region,” he stated. “The chance to see two World Cup-bound squads – and some of the world’s top players – means this will be a truly memorable event for everyone in attendance.” His words underscored the rare chance for local fans to witness elite international soccer just before the World Cup.
A Glimpse into Soccer History at Gillette Stadium
Portugal’s appearance at Gillette Stadium in this Mexico vs Portugal match marked their second visit in as many years. In the previous year, they had faced Brazil in a high-attendance game. Mexico, too, had a history at the venue, having played a memorable match against Brazil in 2007 which drew a record crowd for soccer at Gillette Stadium. This friendly was set to add another chapter to the stadium’s growing soccer legacy.
Historically, Portugal held a slight edge over Mexico with a record of 1-0-1 in their previous two encounters. Their last meeting was during the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, where Portugal secured a 2-1 victory. This friendly offered Mexico a chance to potentially even the score or for Portugal to further assert their dominance.
World Cup Context for Both Teams
Ranked fourth globally at the time, Portugal was heading into the World Cup in Group G, facing formidable opponents: Germany, Ghana, and the United States. For them, the Mexico vs Portugal friendly served as crucial preparation against a team with a different style of play than their World Cup group rivals. Mexico, ranked 21st, was also fine-tuning their strategy for Brazil. Before facing Portugal, they were scheduled to play Bosnia and Herzegovina in Chicago, further maximizing their preparation on North American soil.
Conclusion: A Memorable Pre-World Cup Clash
The Mexico vs Portugal friendly at Gillette Stadium was more than just a pre-World Cup warm-up; it was a celebration of international soccer, bringing together star players and passionate fans. For those in attendance, it was an unforgettable experience to witness two nations brimming with soccer talent as they geared up for the world’s biggest stage in Brazil. The match served as a reminder of the global appeal of soccer and the excitement that builds as the World Cup approaches.
