RENO, Nev. – Reno 1868 FC, in conjunction with Pazzo Sports, are proud to announce a friendly against 2017 Liga MX quarterfinalists Atlas Fùtbol Club on July 8, 7:30 p.m. at Greater Nevada Field.

Headquartered in Guadalajara, Mexico, Atlas is coached by longtime Liga MX head coach José Guadalupe Cruz. The club’s roster is led by Mexico’s national team captain and former Barcelona defender Rafa Marquez. In its 100-year existence, Atlas has won a Liga MX title, four Copa MX and four Campeón de Campeones titles.

 

“We are thrilled to bring world renowned club, Atlas, to Reno,” said Eric Edelstein president of 1868 FC. “Having Introduced the world's sport to Nevada, we’re committed to showcasing the best in the world right here at Greater Nevada Field.”

Atlas are renowned for a successful youth academy system. In the last few decades, Atlas have developed many players with outstanding professional careers domestically and internationally.

Atlas harbors the philosophy of player development by providing young players the opportunity to be promoted to the first team.

Famous players from the Atlas academy:

Rafael Márquez – Mexico’s current team captain is widely regarded as the best defender in Mexico's history and one of the best Mexican players of all time. He played in over 70 games with Atlas before being signed by Monaco, where he won the Ligue 1 title in France. In 2003, Márquez transferred to Barcelona and became the first Mexican footballer to play for the club. He would go on to play in over 200 games and win numerous championships. In 2006, he became the first Mexican player to win the UEFA Champions League when Barcelona defeated Arsenal in the final.

 

Jared Borgetti –  At 46 goals, Borgetti is currently the co-leading goal scorer alongside Javier Hernández for the Mexico national football team. He is the Club Santos Laguna top goal scorer with 205 goals who was well known for his heading ability.

 

Oswaldo Sánchez – Regarded as one of the best Mexican Goalkeepers in Mexican football history with 99 caps (appearances) for Mexico. Sánchez was also on the cover of the North American edition of FIFA Football 2005.

“A Liga MX team coming to Reno is great for our City,” said head coach Ian Russell.” “Atlas is a great club and they play some fantastic soccer.”

Atlas currently plays in the Estadio Jalisco, which is the third largest stadium in Mexico. The venue has hosted historic matches and teams including Pelé’s Brazil in 1970.  The stadium hosted eight games in the 1970 FIFA World Cup. Years later the venue hosted nine matches in the 1986 FIFA World Cup.

“Playing one of the top clubs in Mexico will be a great test for our team,” said Andy Smith, general manager of 1868 FC. “These games give us the opportunity to show Reno where we stack up in this global sport.”

Tickets are currently available for 1868 FC founding members. A public sale will occur on Friday, May 19 at 10:00 a.m.

Season Memberships are on-sale now at reno1868fc.com or by calling 775-334-7001. For up-to-date news and notes throughout the season, follow Reno 1868 FC on Twitter @reno1868fc, Instagram @reno1868fc or like the team on Facebook.