Days after announcing one new television package, the Tampa Bay Rowdies have announced another.
The North American Soccer League has announced a deal with beIN Sports, a global network, that will broadcast a minimum of 34 matches throughout the season. Included will be 11 matches during the spring, 18 in the fall and five weekday games.
“We’re obviously very excited to announce our new partnership with beIN SPORTS,” said NASL Commissioner Bill Peterson. “Like the NASL, beIN SPORTS has quickly grown in importance and stature across North America. Our savvy pro soccer fans here in North America are watching beIN Sports on a regular basis, and now they’ll be able to watch exciting and competitive NASL action every week.”
In addition to the TV presence that comes with the partnership, each NASL match will be available online to authenticated viewers via beIN SPORTS CONNECT — the network’s live streaming platform.
“We are thrilled to amplify our global soccer coverage with the addition of the NASL, a league with a growing fan base in North America and some of the country’s most promising professional prospects,” said Yousef Al-Obaidly, Managing Director of beIN SPORTS. “This acquisition marks our commitment to providing viewers with access to the best sports leagues and events, both in the U.S. and abroad.”
In addition to Saturday’s Fort Lauderdale-Miami matchup on beIn Sports, four other games will kick off the 2016 season. Carolina plays Minnesota, Rayo OKC plays FC Edmonton, the Rowdies play the Indy 11 on Saturday and the New York Cosmos play the Ottawa Fury on Sunday.