The match was moved from Children's Mercy Park - Sporting's soccer-specific stadium - to accommodate the large audience expected for the contest against the Herons. Arrowhead Stadium holds over 76,000 persons, and a near sellout is expected for a record attendance for a soccer match in the city. The last time Sporting played at the venue was 2007 against the LA Galaxy - where Miami co-owner David Beckham was on the pitch for their opposition.
Despite it being a home match, plenty of Messi and Miami kits were visible ahead of kickoff.