7 p.m. vs. Club Leon, Target Field, no TV

Preview: United plays host to Club Leon, a premier Mexican league team, in the first soccer match held at Target Field. The exhibition match is expected to draw about 20,000 fans, twice the number at last year's friendly between the teams at the National Sports Center. The Loons, a member of the North American Soccer League, are ready to show their skills against a top-flight international opponent. "It's an opportunity to get on the field against a quality opponent and have some fun," Loons forward Danny Cruz said. "We're playing for pride and for our league and it's important that we show well."

Players to watch: When the teams played to a 1-1 draw in Blaine last summer, former United star Miguel Ibarra played a half with each team. The blur of a midfielder has good teammates. Striker Mauro Boselli is the team leader in goals. His primary setup man is Elías Hernández. For the Loons, the chemistry between Christian Ramirez and Ben Speas, though stunted by the latter's injury in the spring season, has produced several goals. Defender Kevin Venegas led the NASL in assists during the spring season.

Pageantry: United supporters groups will march to the stadium from Kierans in downtown Minneapolis at 6 p.m. and enter through Target Field plaza.

Field: The field dimensions will be 109 yards long by 74 yards wide, a little smaller than international standards.

Pricier tickets: Seats range from $19 to $110 compared with $15 to $36 for next week's fall season opener against Carolina at the National Sports Center.

David La Vaque