International soccer is coming to Bridgeview on Tuesday, June 9, when Venezuela faces Iraq in an 8 p.m. friendly at SeatGeek Stadium.
The match gives local fans a chance to see Venezuela forward Kevin Kelsy of the Portland Timbers and Iraq’s World Cup-bound national team in a tune-up ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Kelsy, a 21-year-old forward, was called into Venezuela’s men’s national team for the June international window. The Portland Timbers say the 6-foot-4 striker had five goals and three assists in 13 appearances before the call-up. He will be among the younger international pros expected to represent Venezuela in the match.
In soccer, a friendly is an exhibition-style international match. It counts as a real game but does not affect league standings, cup brackets, or World Cup qualifying points. Both teams are using the June window to prepare for the 2026 World Cup, with Venezuela also scheduled to face Turkey during the international break.
Iraq’s coach, Graham Arnold, named an extended squad for the team’s World Cup preparations. The squad will use the Bridgeview match as part of its tune-up schedule ahead of the tournament.
Game-Day Details
Kickoff is 8 p.m. Central at SeatGeek Stadium, located at 7000 S. Harlem Ave. in Bridgeview. The match will be broadcast on ESPN.
Parking lots open at 5:30 p.m., and gates open at 6:30 p.m. Fans should plan to arrive early to allow time for parking and entry.
Tickets are available through Ticketón via the “Buy your tickets” link on SeatGeek Stadium’s official event page.