MLS names Real Madrid the 2017 All-Star game opponent

The La Liga giant will travel to Chicago to face the league’s all-star team on Aug. 2

Real Madrid has been named the 2017 opponent for the MLS All-Star game, the league announced Saturday.

The La Liga giant will travel to meet the league’s all-star team in the match at Soldier Field in Chicago on Aug. 2 at 9 p.m. ET. The MLS side will be led by Chicago Fire head coach Veljko Paunovic.

“It is an honor to represent Major League Soccer and to work with our league’s great players in a match against one of the top clubs in the word,” Paunovic said in a press release. “I know how special it is to compete against Real Madrid and I think our players and fans will also enjoy the experience."

The reigning UEFA Champions League holder, Madrid remains in contention to become the first team to repeat as Champions League winner. Los Blancos currently lead Bayern Munich 2-1 heading into the second leg of their quarterfinal tie. Madrid also is in strong position to reclaim the La Liga title from Barcelona. 

Real Madrid’s appearance will be the first time a La Liga side has appeared in the game, which has featured the likes of Bayern Munich, Roma and Chelsea among others in the past. Last year’s opponent, Arsenal, defeated the MLS All-Star side 2-1 in San Jose.