The real thing

Soccer game will be broadcast live in virtual reality.

Tickets are pricey and becoming difficult to obtain for the much-anticipated first meeting on American soil between Spanish soccer powers Real Madrid and FC Barcelona on Staurday at Hard Rock Stadium.

There is a way to feel what it’s like to be at El Clasico without actually being in the stadium. The game will be broadcast live in virtual reality by NextVR, a leader in the high-tech window on sports.

NextVR joined with NBA Digital in offering live viewing of one NBA game a week in virtual reality during the past season, as well as a highlights package of the Championship Finals between the Warriors and Cavaliers.

The California-based firm has provided live soccer via the VR headset before, but this will be a first for the El Clasico showdown between two of the world’s premier clubs. Highlights in virtual reality will also be offered from the match and eight others in the International Champions Cup series.

“Virtual reality immerses you in the action and we’re able to transport fans into the match to provide them unprecedented access to one of the world’s

most premier sporting events,” said David Cole, CEO of NextVR.

All it takes is a Samsung GearVR headset or Google Daydream View, along with a compatible smartphone to access the NextVR app, which is free from the Oculus Store for GearVR or the Google Play Store for Daydream users.

The Gear VR headset with controller sells for $130 on the Next VR site, the Google Daydream View for $79 on Amazon.

The headsets can be used for numerous other virtual reality feeds, including concerts. The initial investment is considerably cheaper than going to the game.

Even upper deck seats for El Clasico were selling for $275 and considerably higher.

The VR broadcast will have its own dedicated announcers and be available in English and Spanish. It will include the halftime show featuring five-time Grammy Award winner Marc Anthony and offer behind-the-scenes footage exclusive to VR.

ESPN will have comprehensive broadcast coverage on various platforms of the ICC, including El Clasico and Wednesday’s match between Champions League finalist Juventus and French power Paris Saint Germain at Hard Rock Stadium.

While the traditional telecasts in HD will satisfy many fans, virtual reality is an option for those looking for something different.

Keep in mind this is an evolving technology. When NextVR streamed its first soccer match in the 2015 ICC between Manchester United and FC Barcelona at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., it utilized three cameras.

For Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, 12 VR cameras will be positioned along the pitch and throughout Hard Rock Stadium.

Reviews of the VR broadcast of NBA games have been generally favorable. Keep in mind, it’s a different experience than watching a game on a flat screen with friends.

With VR, it’s more up close and personal. Put on the headset and it transports the viewer into the stadium in the middle of the action in 360 degrees.

“The ICC offers a premium viewing experience whether you’re in the stadium or at home, and this partnership will play a key role in following through on that promise,” said Bruce Bundrant, CEO of Relevent Sports, organizer of the ICC.

To get started, visit nextvr.com/icc