Some believe a football or soccer match game is only as good as the venue and spectators watching it, and that is especially true in Major League Soccer.
The league’s current season is in full flight and despite the improved technicality and fluidity on the field, it is the energy generated by the fans in attendance that have made the games more fun to watch. From their colorful tifos to their vibrant songs and chants, MLS fans have made the games more attractive to tourists. In the first two month of the season, the league’s average attendance has gone up 11 percent compared to 2014.
For sports aficionados looking to experience the best atmosphere MLS has to offer, here are the 10 best venues in the North American league.
The league’s current season is in full flight and despite the improved technicality and fluidity on the field, it is the energy generated by the fans in attendance that have made the games more fun to watch. From their colorful tifos to their vibrant songs and chants, MLS fans have made the games more attractive to tourists. In the first two month of the season, the league’s average attendance has gone up 11 percent compared to 2014.
For sports aficionados looking to experience the best atmosphere MLS has to offer, here are the 10 best venues in the North American league.
PPL Park (Philadelphia Union): Despite having arguably the most disappointing side in the league this season, Philadelphia fans never cease to show their support. The Sons of Ben are loud, spirited and entertaining. The view of the Delaware River and beautiful Commodore Barry Bridge is also a positive.
Avaya Stadium (San Jose Earthquakes): Only four matches have been played in the leagues newest soccer specific stadium, and on all occasions, the atmosphere has been splendid. San Jose’s faithfuls have showed up in great numbers, selling out all four games. With the Earthquakes winning three of their four matches, they’ll continue to sell tickets and the atmosphere Avaya Stadium should be electric all 2015.
StubHub Center (LA Galaxy): The reigning champions aren’t having the best of times on the pitch, but that hasn’t dampened the spirits in the stands. The confetti will continue to rain down from the skies and the songs are only going to get louder as Bruce Arena’s side looks to get their season back on track. The aura will improve when Robbie Keane returns from injury and Steven Gerrard arrives from Liverpool.
BC Place (Vancouver Whitecaps): Even though American teams might overshadow Canadian clubs on the field, their fans make just as much as noise, if not more. Privileged to witness one of the most entertaining teams in MLS, Vancouver fans show their appreciation by filling up the stadium every game day and cheering on top of their lungs. The magnificent design of the stadium makes it one of the places to visit in Canada.
Yankee Stadium (New York City FC): The legendary Yankee Stadium; what more needs to be said? Home of baseball’s most recognizable team is transformed into a soccer pitch on NYCFC game days, and despite not being the most visually appealing pitch in MLS, the effervescent crowd is breathtaking. With the freedom to expand the capacity to 50,000, the first home match against New York Red Bulls should be scintillating encounter.
BMO Field (Toronto FC): Toronto has been the laughing stock of the league since it joined, but its fans have consistently backed the club. Through thick and thin, The Reds’ supporters always made their voice heard. This season, the club has rewarded their loyalty by signing Sebastian Giovinco and Jozy Altidore and expanding the stadium.
Sporting Park (Sporting Kansas City): Famously referred to as Blue Hell, Sporting Park is arguably the most gorgeous stadium in MLS. Coupled with the vibrant supporters group known as the Cauldron, the seating arrangements allow the fans to enjoy the action from every angle with little discomfort. If the preceding sentence doesn’t convince you that Sporting Park is the place to be, the clubs streak of over 50 sellouts should.
Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium (Orlando City FC): First year in MLS, the expansion club’s supporters have made their voices heard. Showing up in great strength, over 37,000 per game, OCSC supporter clubs gather at The Wall to cause some ruckus. The chance to watch Brazilian legend Kaka strut his stuff is also an added bonus.
Providence Park (Portland Timbers): The Timbers might not have the biggest stadium in the league, but they can claim to have the loudest and most creative fans in MLS. The Timbers Army make life miserable for visitors, while pushing their side to greater heights.
CenturyLink Field (Seattle Sounders): Imagine over 40,000 ebullient fans screaming, shouting signing, jumping around, clapping their hands and raising their scarves with pride for 90 minutes inside a state of the art facility, and you have the most jaw dropping stadium in MLS.