Newcastle United welcome Champions League opposition to St James’ Park in August.
The day gets underway at 1pm with the Lady Magpies facing Atletico Madrid Femenino before Eddie Howe’s side go up against Diego Simeone’s side at 4pm.Tickets are priced at £25 for adults and £10 for concessions
Atletico finished third in La Liga last season and have therefore qualified for the Champions League. With Simeone’s side projected to be pot two and Newcastle in pot four, there’s a chance both teams could meet in the competition.
What Eddie Howe said
"Playing in the Sela Cup in front of our own supporters is something we really look forward to," said Howe. “St. James' Park is always special, but those games in the summer - seeing all the black and white shirts in the stands - are so unique. It will give the players an extra boost at a crucial time in our preparations.
"Pre-season is all about being ready, both domestically in the Premier League and for the Champions League, so playing a team of Atlético's calibre is an ideal test.
"They are an extremely talented side, managed by one of the best coaches in the world. We will have faced top quality opposition from both English and European football over the summer and it will stand us in good stead."
What Becky Langley said
Meanwhile, Becky Langley’s ladies also face a challenging test with Atletico Madrid Femenino finishing third in Liga F last season behind giants Barcelona and Real Madrid, and reached the Copa de la Reina final.
“We're really excited to be taking part in the Sela Cup again this year,” Langley said. “It has become a big date to look out for in the pre-season schedule.
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"Like AC Milan last season, Atlético are a huge name with exceptional players so it's a big test but one we're motivated for. We have another big season ahead of us in WSL 2. Matches like this will give us the physical test and type of experience we’ll need to be ready for it.
"Every time we have played at St. James' Park, we have received incredible support and we know it will be the same again in front of our outstanding fans."
Newcastle United thank partners Sela
The Sela Cup returns for its third consecutive year, forming part of Sela’s £ 25million-per-season agreement as Newcastle’s front-of-shirt sponsor. In past years, Fiorentina, Villarreal, Girona, and AC Milan Women have visited St James’ Park as part of the tournament.
Ibrahim Mohtaseb, Head of International Business at Sela, added: "We're excited to welcome one of the biggest teams in Europe to St. James' Park this summer.
"Ahead of Newcastle United's arrival back in the Champions League this will be a challenging test for both sides and an entertaining watch for fans.Now into our third year of partnership with Newcastle United, we're proud that the Sela Cup continues to provide a spectacular matchday experience for all."
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