Raul Gonzalez and the New York Cosmo’s will make history when they play Cuba’s National Team. The game that is scheduled for June 2nd is more than an exhibition game for both nations involved.
Raul, who recently joined the New York team after his time with Schalke 04, will be the main figure in this match. The last time a United States team played in Cuba was in 1977 when the Chicago Sting visited the island.
New York Cosmos previously played a game in China
The United States President, Barack Obama recently lifted an embargo
“The embargo lift of December 17 is a huge step, very beneficial for our soccer,” Garces said. “U.S.A. has a tremendous soccer level, it will be an excellent preparation for World Cup qualifiers.”
Cuba has only participated in one World Cup (1938) and is mostly known for its baseball and boxing prodigies. Bringing a soccer legend like Raul to the island could help the sport grow. The National Team is expected to participate in the CONCACAF Gold Cup in July.
The game is set to be played at the Pedro Marrero Stadium for around 25,000 spectators
Cosmos could see this as an opportunity no other club in the world has tapped into. Knowing that the island is home to many great athletes, could be an opportunity to create an academy and develop future soccer stars.
This is a game that most likely the former Spain international never dreamed of playing. A deal to broadcast the game has not been finalized, but it will most likely be aired live for millions to watch.
Cosmos belongs to the North American Soccer League and begins its regular season in April. They will play a club team from El Salvador this weekend.
Towards the end of his career, Pele also played with N.Y. Cosmos
