Fire-Man U ticket sales top 50,000

More than 50,000 tickets have been sold for the Chicago Fire's World Football Challenge match against English club Manchester United at Soldier Field on July 23.

Advance tickets for the 4 p.m. contest are still available via Ticketmaster and Chicago-Fire.com or by calling 888-MLS-Fire.

The match is included in the Fire's Full Season Ticket Holder plan as Bonus Game Two. Supporters can purchase a ticket for the Manchester United match by purchasing full Chicago Fire season tickets. In addition, the Fire is offering an exclusive VIP Experience which includes a premium field-side seat, a commemorative poster, Fire jersey, scarf, commemorative chair, ticket to watch Manchester United practice and food and beverage. VIP Experience tickets are available by calling 708.496.6787.

The Fire will take on the English Premier League Winners and UEFA Champions League Finalists as part of the Herbalife World Football Challenge. Led by Sir Alex Ferguson, Manchester United is one of the most recognized clubs in the world, lifting a total of 19 English Premier League titles, four Carling cups, three European Cups and a record 11 FA Cups. In 1999, United were the first team to win the Treble (English Premier League, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League) in one season. Founded in 1878, the Red Devils have competed in the top division of English soccer since 1938, with the exception of the 1974-1975 season.