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All you need to know about the Emirates Cup
Arsenal’s pre-season competition is celebrating its tenth year.
This July sees the return of the Emirates Cup, the perfect summer fixture following the excitement of the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Fans can watch familiar faces from last season, catch the first wave of new signings and get acquainted with Arsenal’s ladies team who will be playing on the same day. Here’s what you need to know:
What is the Emirates Cup?
The Emirates Cup is a pre-season competition held at Arsenal’s home ground in Holloway, North London, on Sunday 28 July 2019. This will be the tenth year of the tournament, in a new one-day format allowing fans to see both the Arsenal women’s and men’s teams playing.
Who’s playing at the Emirates Cup?
Arsenal W.F.C v FC Bayern Munich Women – 12:30 kick off
Arsenal F.C. v Olympique Lyonnais – 15:15 kick off
How much are tickets for the Emirates Cup?
Ticket prices start from £25 (+fees) with concessions from £12 (+fees).
What can fans expect from the Emirates Cup?
It’s always a joy to watch pre-season games; they drum up excitement for the year ahead and give a club football fix to those experiencing withdrawals during summer. The Lyon game will offer a glimpse into how manager Unai Emery plans to approach his second season in charge at Arsenal, as well as giving many fans a first look at any new signings.
From the women’s team, fans should look out for Danielle van de Donk, Vivianne Miedema and Beth Mead, who are just a few of the many Gunners who shone representing their national teams at this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Why you fans get down early to support?
Whilst certain sports have consistently celebrated genders equally, it’s been a slower journey for football. The new Emirates Cup format crucially increases exposure for women’s football, supporting the possibility of it progressing into a truly mainstream sport that could one day compete with the popularity, sponsorships and salaries of the male game.
Much of this lies with the viewers, who themselves can prove there is demand. Watching a game quickly debunks the often unfair myth that women’s football is boring or unimpressive and with the likes of Clare Balding, Liv Cooke and Ada Hegerberg (to name but a few) opening up conversation, there is much to be inspired by.
In just 90 minutes, football has the unique ability to unite, inspire and astonish. At this year’s Emirates Cup, you get twice the fun – so whether it’s a day out with friends or a treat for the family, fans should come along to show your support for both of The Gunners’ senior football teams.
Remaining tickets for the Emirates Cup are available now through Ticketmaster.co.uk
