Major League Soccer (MLS) club Houston Dynamo has announced that its new stadium in downtown Houston, Texas, US, is poised to host its first game on 12 May 2012.

Designed by Populous, the 22,000-seat venue is one of the first "soccer-specific" grounds to be developed by a MLS club in a downtown location and is sited near Minute Maid Park.

It has also been revealed that Houston Dynamos has signed a multi-year naming rights deal with bank BBVA Compass, which will see the venue called the BBVA Compass Stadium.

The venue will also host Texas Southern University football, boxing events and concerts and is currently seeking Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.

BBVA Compass president and chief executive officer Manolo Sánchez said: "BBVA Compass Stadium will be a major step in revitalizing our urban core."

Houston Dynamo president of business operations Chris Canetti added: "Together we will utilize the stadium as a driving force toward making a positive impact on the city."

Details: www.houstondynamo.com