The section of the world that the U.S. is competing in allows for three countries to automatically qualify for World Cup 2014 in Brazil. The U.S. competes with other countries from North America, Central America and the Caribbean.

The Colorado Rapids will host its first match of the 2011-2012 CONCACAF Champions League on Aug. 17 at Dick's Sporting Goods Park, taking on either Isidro Metapan of El Salvador or the Puerto Rico Islanders in the competitions Group Stage.

CONCACAF announced on Thursday the first two matches of the Group Stage, with the Rapids traveling to face Real España of Honduras on Aug.

Sporting KC will be well represented when the CONCACAF Gold Cup begins in June.

KC has four players who will play for their national teams in the tournament that determines the champion of North America, Central America and the Carribean.

Shavar Thomas will play for Jamaica, Roger Espinoza for Honduras, Craig Rocastle for Grenada and Stephane Auvray for Guadeloupe.

Time is running out to get tickets for the CONCACAF Gold cup games June 14 at Livestrong Sporting Park.

Tickets are almost sold out for the international games. The Tuesday doubleheader features USA against Guadeloupe and Canada vs. Panama.

For tickets, visit www.goldcup.org. Tickets range from $45 to $142.