If you are not a football fan, then I have to clarify that “Barca” is pronounced just like, “Marcia”-  as in the famous, quote by one Jan Brady: Marcia Marcia Marcia! 

If you want to sound like a seasoned soccer fan, then it is these subtleties that are quite important.

Last night at Soldier Field, two famous club teams came together for an exciting friendly. Chivas Guadalajara and FC Barcelona (Futbol Club Barcelona). Of course, FC Barcelona is affectionately known as Barca. These teams are stars in their respective clubs leagues and to see such a cross-club clash on American soil is a rare treat.

Our friend, Futbol Bobby, is a soccer enthusiast and was impressed to be so close to amazing stars. These types of exhibition matches are the perfect way to get up-close to some of the best players in the world. For only 50 bucks, we sat one row from the goal with an amazing view of the superstar Frenchie, Thierry Henry. You may recognize his name from the World Cup, but his “day job” is getting paid the big bucks from Barca. 

Given the large population of Mexican Americans in Chicago, Chivas fans were out in full force. But, their spirit was no match for the skills and stars of Barca.  

Save yourself a lengthy trip outside the country, and put these types of clubs friendlies on your list of sports “To Do’s.”