LA Galaxy coach Bruce Arena is treating the game in Auckland as a normal Major League Soccer (MLS) match. Arena has been preparing his squad for the match against an Oceania All-Stars XI and said his the Galaxy won't be coming over for just a holiday.

"We certainly don't view this trip as going to a country that plays rugby," Arena said.

"We're well aware of the fact that New Zealand has some good football players, and it's going to be a very competitive match."

When the Galaxy comes out to Auckland in December, it is off-season in the MLS so it will be a good chance for coaching staff to evaluate and analyse the players ahead of next season.

"Any time you compete in another country it's an added challenge and I think it can turn out to be a real good experience for us, and a game that can help the rebuilding process for our team in 2009."

Arena added, "I'm certain it's going to be a good entertaining game for the fans."

LA Galaxy including David Beckham plays the Oceania All-Stars including Mark Bosnich and Christian Karembeu at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand on Saturday December 6.

Tickets are available from www.ticketek.co.nz or by calling 0800 TICKETEK.