der Pflichtspielauftakt
Translation
competitive season opener, first competitive match of the season
Examples
Der Pflichtspielauftakt findet nächste Woche statt.
The competitive season opener takes place next week.
Grammar Patterns
der Pflichtspielauftakt ((subject)) takes place. The competitive season opener is scheduled for Saturday.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Saisonstart (season start); Antonyms: Testspiel (test match), Freundschaftsspiel (friendly match)
Etymology
From 'Pflicht' (duty) + 'Spiel' (game) + 'Auftakt' (opener). The opening of 'duty games' (i.e., competitive, not friendly).
Memory Tips
Think of the first game of the season that counts for points. It's a 'Pflicht' (duty) to play seriously, and it's the 'Auftakt' (opener).