Thursday, August 15, 2008            
                                         

DC Sports and Entertainment Commission Plays Host to Successful World-Class Soccer Match at RFK Stadium

30,000 Fans Turnout for El Salvador and Trinidad and Tobago International Friendly

(Washington, DC) – Nearly 30,000 fans turned out to watch the national teams of Trinidad and Tobago beat El Salvador 3-1 in an international friendly last night at RFK Stadium.  This is the fourth international soccer match the DC Sports and Entertainment Commission (DCSEC) has hosted this season.

“It gives us great pleasure to be the host of another successful international soccer match at RFK Stadium,” said Erik A. Moses, DC Sports and Entertainment Commission chief executive officer. “The District is world-renowned for being home to a diverse group of soccer aficionados and as part of our goals we will continue to provide top-tier matches for fans in the metropolitan area.”

El Salvador prepares to face Costa Rica on August 20th in a qualifier while Trinidad and Tobago used last night’s match as a tune up to their qualifier against Cuba on the same date.   El Salvador is in a group with Costa Rica, Haiti and Surinam in CONCACAF qualifying.  Trinidad and Tobago is paired in a group with USA, Cuba and Guatemala.  The top two in each group advance to the Final Round of Qualifying for World Cup.

DCSEC plans to host a home match for the semifinal round qualifier for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
RFK Stadium has served as the home of four-time MLS Cup Champion D.C. United since its inception in 1996 and was the first venue to host the MLS Cup Championship three times.  The stadium’s storied bouncy seats and nostalgic charm add to the authentic soccer atmosphere that fans relish at the games.  In addition to two MLS Cups, RFK has hosted several memorable soccer matches including World Cup games in 1994, Olympic men’s soccer in 1996 and the 2002 and 2004 MLS All-Star games.  DCSEC also plans to host upcoming concerts, festivals and other sporting activities at the stadium.

About the DC Sports and Entertainment Commission (DCSEC)                                          
The DC Sports and Entertainment Commission, an independent agency of the District of Columbia government, oversaw the successful construction of Nationals Park which was completed on time and within the cost cap.  DCSEC is responsible for the management and operation of Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium, the DC Armory and their adjacent facilities. The Commission is also charged with presenting and promoting sports, entertainment and special events.