Pre-Season Match Watch Guide: Live Streams, Tickets & Tips

Pre‑season matches might not count for points, but they’re the first chance to see new signings, tactics and raw excitement before the league kicks off. Fans love the relaxed vibe, the chance to travel to a warm city, and the chance to catch a star player’s first minutes in a new jersey. Below you’ll get the low‑down on the biggest games coming up, where to watch them, and how to snag a seat without breaking the bank.

Top Pre‑Season Fixtures to Catch

One of the hottest events is the Everton vs West Ham United Premier League Summer Series in Chicago’s Soldier Field on July 30. Kick‑off is at 11:30 PM local time, and the game streams live on NBC/Peacock in the U.S. and Sky Sports in the U.K. It’s a perfect way to see both squads try out new formations before the season starts.

Another must‑watch is the Sparta Praha vs Inter Milan UEFA Champions League warm‑up. Though technically a friendly, it gives Inter a chance to test out their attack after a busy transfer window. In the U.S., Paramount+ will carry the match, so just fire up the app and you’re good to go.

How to Stream & Grab Tickets

Most pre‑season games are broadcast on the same platforms that carry regular‑season matches. For American fans, NBC/Peacock and Paramount+ are your go‑to services. If you’re outside the U.S., look for Sky Sports, BT Sport or the local broadcaster that has the rights. A quick search for the match name plus "live stream" will usually pop the right link.

Ticket buying is easier than you think. Clubs often release a limited batch of seats weeks before the match, then open a second wave closer to the date. Sign up for the club’s newsletter or follow their official social accounts – they post the exact release dates. If a match sells out fast, try reputable resale sites; they usually have a few tickets left a day or two before kickoff.

Don’t forget the practical stuff: check the venue’s weather forecast, arrive early for the best parking spot, and bring a reusable water bottle – many stadiums now have refill stations. If you’re traveling internationally, look for combo deals that include a hotel and a match ticket; they often save you a chunk of cash.

Finally, why do these matches matter? Teams use them to iron out defensive issues, test new signings and build chemistry. Watching them gives you a sneak peek at how the season might unfold. You’ll see the coach’s early ideas, spot a player who’s finding form, and enjoy a laid‑back atmosphere that’s hard to find during the crunch of league play.

So grab your jersey, set up that streaming account, and get ready for some quality football before the official season begins. Pre‑season matches are the perfect mix of excitement, insight and fan fun – and they’re just a click away.