D.C. United to Play Real Madrid

• MLSnet.com , Friday, May 29, 2009 3 PM

D.C. United announced Thursday that it will play a friendly match against Real Madrid on Aug. 9 at FedEx Field in Maryland. The match represents a rematch for the two squads, who played out a compelling 1-1 draw at Qwest Field in Seattle three years ago, entertaining a record-breaking crowd of 66,830.

"A capacity crowd -- the biggest group of fans that I've ever had the chance to play in front of," recalled Bryan Namoff, one of five current United players who saw action against Real that night. "What an experience. Not only to play in front of that big a fan base, but to play against the powerhouse. Real Madrid is a household name, whether or not you are a soccer fan."

United players such as rookie Chris Pontius are relishing the opportunity to play against players that they typically see only on television. "I mean, this match is a friendly in all terms, but we're going to be going against some of the best players in the world," said Pontius. "The history that Real Madrid has is unbelievable and to be given an opportunity to play against them, I know all the guys on the team are excited about it."

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