Washington-area fútbol enthusiasts get a real treat tomorrow night (7:30 p.m.) when Celtic FC, one of the most storied clubs in Europe, visits a DC United squad playing some of the best soccer in its history. Nominally, the match is an international friendly, an exhibition. DC is playing through a 33 game season, and will not want to risk injury or exhaustion to its stars. Celtic is in its preseason, and will be eager to gauge many of its younger players.

Still, there are many reasons we believe tomorrow night’s game will be a classic. DC United is the hottest team in the MLS, winners of 5 straight and unbeaten in their last 12. They are playing with confidence and will welcome the challenge of world-class competition. Celtic should give playing time to many of its stars, several of which played in last month’s World Cup. Contentious fouls that disrupt the flow of play are not common in exhibitions. For these reasons, we expect an entertaining, high scoring affair.

Sure, the tickets are a bit pricey (ranging from $30), but to get this good a look at quality play, we’d usually end up spending a lot more. Plus, after a month-long soccer binge, this game is the Bloody Mary we’ve been looking for.

Image courtesy of dcunited.com