Delco to Once Again Host Most Historic Rivalry in Sports

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The Army men's soccer team salutes fellow cadets.
The Army men's soccer team salutes its fellow cadets in the stands after its victory over Navy last year at Talen Energy Stadium. Photo courtesy of the Army men's soccer Twitter page.

Forget Michigan vs. Ohio State, or even Duke vs. North Carolina.

No rivalry between a pair of institutions in America is on par with Army vs. Navy. Their competitions are as ingrained in our culture as, perhaps, Ford vs. GM, Coke vs. Pepsi, or Apple vs. Microsoft.

Delaware County will once again host the annual soccer match between the Black Knights and Midshipmen.

The Army-Navy Cup V will take place at Chester’s Talen Energy Stadium, home of Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union, at 7 PM on Friday, Sept. 23.

The last two installments of this extraordinary rivalry, played on the Delaware Riverfront under the Commodore Barry Bridge, has attracted more than 20,000 fans and supporters.

“Given our location, equidistant between both academies, this event was created in the spirit of the Army-Navy Football Classic, a long-time Philadelphia sports institution,” said Union Chief Business Officer Tim McDermott.

“We are honored that the soccer communities of both Annapolis and West Point have truly found a home here at Talen Energy Stadium. We recognize how special this event is, and look forward to welcoming both teams and alumni back to the area on Sept. 23.”

After winning in overtime in 2013 and 2014, Navy suffered a 2-1 setback to Army last season. The contest marks the lone matchup between the Patriot League schools each year.

“The annual Army-Navy men’s soccer match is a highlight of our fall sports season,” said Navy Director of Athletics Chet Gladchuk. “Talen Energy Stadium is a magnificent venue and brings the whole package for this great event.

“The players, coaches, and fans have thoroughly enjoyed the fantastic environment, and every game has been a fight right to the finish. Our thanks to everyone who makes this happen.”

Army will look to tighten its grip on the Cup, and embark on a winning streak in the series.

“We look forward to returning to the Philadelphia area for the fifth installment of the Army-Navy Cup this fall,” said Army Director of Athletics Boo Corrigan. “This has become a special event for our cadets, alumni, and fans. We are grateful to everyone at the Philadelphia Union and Talen Energy Stadium for providing a tremendous showcase for this historic rivalry.”

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